59 per cent women victim of domestic violence in Bihar: Survey

Harassment by a spouse - which often precedes more serious crimes, including murder - rose to 59 per cent in 2005-06 from 47 per cent in 1999, reports Ashok Mishra.

Domestic violence against women has seen a steady rise over the last few years in Bihar.

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Harassment by a spouse - which often precedes more serious crimes, including murder - rose to 59 per cent in 2005-06 from 47 per cent in 1999.

According to the latest National Family and Health Survey (NHFS), 2005-06, overall 59 per cent married women were subjected to violence either by husbands or his family.

Domestic violence against married women was more prevalent in urban areas where the percentage stood at 62.2.

In rural areas, the percentage stood at 58.5 per cent.

Report says that younger women were at greater risk, especially those aged between 25 and 34.

According to the survey report, reasons for wife beating are, negligence of house and children, leaving home without husband's permission, disrespect for in-laws and lack of interest in cooking food.

Women who are childless are also victims of domestic violence. However, the proportion of domestic violence declined with the improved standard in the living condition of women, the report said.

Women in the low socio-economic level were more exposed to beating by their husbands, the report said.

According to the analysts, improving the status of women especially through education will help in reducing domestic violence.

Interestingly, in Bihar, 46.3 per cent of women are involved in making decisions regarding health care.

While a lower proportion of them are involved in decisions regarding purchasing jewellery. 43 per cent make decisions regarding household matters, and 44 per cent about staying with parents or siblings.

Only 28 per cent of women in Bihar do work other than housework and six of 10 such women work for cash. Forty-nine per cent of women in urban areas, who work, decide independently on how to spend the money they earn, the report said.

Email Ashok Mishra: ashokmishra@hindustantimes.com