NCJ Number
191750
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 7 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2001 Pages: 1051-1068
Date Published
September 2001
Length
18 pages
Annotation
In examining several fatal forms of violence perpetrated against women in India, this paper argues the theoretical position that violence against women in India is due in part to the patriarchal nature of that society.
Abstract
This article provides evidence that the potential for lethal violence against Indian women occurs throughout their lives, with increasing vulnerability at times when their marital status changes. The authors argue that the issue of violence against women in India is intrinsically linked to the problem of patriarchy and Western capitalism. The influence of Western capitalism on Indian society has been linked to the increased value of dowries and the resulting occurrences of dowry deaths. The control of women and the potential for violence are especially great when a woman leaves her natal home to become part of her husband's family. On moving in with in-laws, the status of the daughter-in-law is often very low compared with the men and even with any older women in the household. If there are dowry-related problems, it is at this stage that the likelihood of fatal violence increases. The abuse begins when the husband and/or in-laws harass the wife for more money and more goods from her family. If the wife and her family do not comply, a staged accident (dowry burning) may occur. A dowry burning involves dousing the wife in kerosene by her husband and/or in-laws, lighting it, and then leaving the woman to burn to death. These burnings are not supported by religion or law, but Muslims, Hindus, and Christians have all experienced dowry burnings in their communities. Remedial strategies must focus on the effectiveness of existing laws in preventing popular practices of violence against women and on changing men's beliefs and attitudes regarding the rights, worth, and equality of women. 8 notes and 32 references