Silent Suffering: Domestic Violence Among Cross-Region Brides in Rural Haryana, India

Manisha Sharma, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Kailash Chandra Das, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)

This study explores the experiences of cross-region brides who migrated to Haryana, a patriarchal state in North India, and faced domestic violence. Based on fieldwork with 22 women from economically underdeveloped regions of India, the study examines the intersection between domestic violence and cross-region marriages using reflexive thematic analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to understand the types of violence, perpetrators, and help-seeking behaviors. Findings reveal that physical violence, including beatings by husbands and in-laws, was prevalent. Some cases of violence even resulted in miscarriages. Despite this, most women remained silent, with no access to government support. Factors contributing to violence included the women’s outsider status, alcoholic husbands, and a lack of support from their natal families. The primary perpetrators were husbands, fathers-in-law, brothers-in-law, and mothers-in-law. The study highlights the need for programs to promote better integration and acceptance of cross-region brides within their husbands' families. It advocates for increased natal support, societal awareness, and a stronger legal support system. Additionally, empowering women and providing professional interventions are crucial to mitigating violence against them.

Keywords: Gender Dynamics, Inequality, Disadvantage and Discrimination, Migrant Populations and Refugees, Families, Unions and Households

See extended abstract.