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Abstract

The institution of marriage is sacred and binding for generations in India; however, in contemporary times, domestic violence is a burning issue as it questions the sanctity of the Indian family system. This paper highlights how domestic violence between ‘husband and wife’, and their interpersonal complexity, is addressed within the legal framework of the Indian Penal Code and the special act of Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act. These Acts operate as custodians for women who are subjugated to spousal violence. The study is located in Kamrup Metro District of Assam as it is the most urbanised district. The objectives of the study are to show the perspectives of women survivors as they narrate their first hand experience in the judiciary process; it will also highlight the position of state machinery (service providers) including the police, Protection Officers, doctors, lawyers and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs). Theories of Socialisation and Feminist Standpoint are harnessed to explain the findings of the various stakeholders through the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 and Section 498-A, IPC; examining whether it can actually prevent, protect and provide relief measures to the survivors.

Author Biography

Deepshikha Carpenter is a PhD Scholar in Department of Women’s Studies, Gauhati University, India. Her research work is on legal provisions and domestic violence. She is an MSW and currently working as an Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work, Tezpur University.

Dr. Polly Vauquline is an Associate Professor in Department of Women’s Studies, Gauhati University, India. Her interest areas are Gender Geography, Gender Based Violence and Gerentological Studies.

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