What should you do if you're being abused?
Domestic
violence is not just a problem of the lower and middle classes. It is very
prevalent even among prominent people. For many it came as no surprise
that Aam Aadmi Party MLA Somnath Bharti was
involved in a case of domestic violence. The red flags were all there for those
who know what to look for.
However,
the signs of domestic violence (DV) are not always so obvious and a lot of
women don’t report that they’re being abused. Even the woman’s own family is
not always supportive at such times, because of the shame and guilt that
surrounds such issues. Another concern that women face is how to prove domestic
violence in India.
It's
important to get help. Talk with someone you trust, such as a friend, a help
center, or your doctor. Talking with someone can help you make the changes you
need.
Your
first step is to contact a local advocacy group for support, information, and
advice on how to stay safe. Call the All India Women's Conference 10921/ (011)
23389680
You can
also see the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence website at
www.ncadv.org/resources/StateCoalitionList.php to find the program nearest to
you that offers shelter and legal support.
Here are
some other things you can do:
- Know your legal rights. Consider asking the police
for help.
- Make sure that you know phone numbers you can call
and places you can go in an emergency.
- Teach your children not to get in the middle of a
fight.
- If you think you may leave, make a plan to help keep
you safe. This will help when you are getting ready to leave. Your plan
might include:
· Putting
together and hiding a suitcase of clothing, copies of your car and house keys,
money or credit cards, and important papers, such as Social Security cards and
birth certificates for you and your children. Keep the suitcase hidden in your
home or leave it with friends or family or at work if possible.
·
Open a
savings account or get a credit card, if you can do so in secret.
· If you
are a teen, talk to a trusted adult, such as your parents, family friend, or
school counselor. You can also call the National Teen Dating Abuse (011) 26238466/
26224042 26227647
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