Domestic violence

Shock, anger, outrage! Jammu and Kashmir has recorded 2,872 cases of domestic violence in the last two financial years. More than 890 cases were registered in 2023–24, while the number rose sharply to 1,979 in 2024–25. This may be the tip of the iceberg because most of the abuse cases are not reported at all. Families and communities try to bandage the crimes in the four walls of their houses. Police come into the picture only when things go out of control. By then, it is too late. A moral decay has crept into our society. Wife beating has become a norm. The dowry system, which was a taboo in our society, is receiving tacit support. A girl with no job finds it difficult to get a suitable groom. A boy‘s first preference is a working woman. As a result, late marriages have become the norm. T