A home is normally considered a safe haven. But it may not be for people experiencing domestic violence. And with several parts of the country still under lockdown, domestic violence is one of the many challenges people are facing. In the last 24 days, there have been more than 70 alleged incidences of domestic violence from districts under lockdown. This is as per calls received by the NCWC and RENEW.
According to the National Commission for Women and Children (NCWC) and the RENEW organisation, there have been 76 reports of domestic violence so far. Among them, 67 are women and nine are men. Thimphu has the highest number with 31 cases.
Reports were also received from Wangdue Phodrang, Paro, Chhukha, Bumthang, Gelephu, Samdrup Jongkhar, Punakha, Trongsa, Trashigang, Dagana and Samtse.
The cases are mostly related to emotional and physical abuse. The majority of the callers are between the ages of 25 and 40.
According to RENEW, domestic violence is caused by frustration, stress, anxiety, lack of communication, and understanding between partners and families.
The NCWC and RENEW, since the beginning of the lockdown, have been facilitating the victims of domestic violence to avail themselves of shelter services, counselling, legal advice and other psychological support.
Temporary shelters have been established in all the districts to provide shelter and emergency support to the victims.
Kelzang Choden
