'Violence against Women': Evidence from a Cross Sectional Study in Urban Area of North Bengal

Background: Violence against women has emerged as the most pressing and intractable social problem across regional, social and cultural boundaries; with long term impact on physical, sexual, social health and mental well being. Objectives: The study was carried out to estimate the prevalence of different types of 'life time' violence against women (VAW) among women of reproductive age group, and to find out specific violent behaviour as well as to identify the related consequences of the affected women and help seeking following violence. Methodology: A cross-sectional observational study was undertaken by interviewing 284 women of reproductive age group residing in two urban wards under Siliguri Municipal Corporation with a pre-designed and pre-tested schedule. Data was analysed by simple proportion. Results: out of 284 women 52.1% had ever faced physical violence. The most common form of violence was slapping, kicking, choking, and punching followed by 'insisted on knowing where she was at all times' (48.9%). Among of 222 abused, 54.5% suffered from mental problem followed by 39.2% were experienced to physical injury. Only 4.9% consulted physician and 3.6% have reported to police. Conclusion: Little progress in reducing levels of violence may be achieved without significant changes in prevailing individual and community attitudes toward violence.