1. INTRODUCTION:

Violence against women is a major concern in India, with domestic violence being a prominent issue that threatens the safety and well-being of women within the family. Domestic violence includes various forms such as physical abuse, emotional and psychological abuse, sexual violence, economic or financial abuse, and verbal abuse. Factors such as the patriarchal social structure, economic vulnerability, and cultural norms contribute significantly to the perpetuation of domestic violence.

One Stop Centres play a vital role in providing comprehensive support services to women in need. Their establishment is closely linked to policy reforms that followed the 2012 Nirbhaya case, which exposed critical gaps in India’s response to violence against women. In response, the Government of India launched the Nirbhaya Fund in 2013, a dedicated and non-lapsable financial resource designed to improve women’s safety by supporting initiatives such as the setting up and strengthening of One Stop Centres, enhancing institutional support systems, and providing integrated services for survivors of violence. As of April 5, 2023, the Ministry of Women and Child Development reported that 801 One Stop Centres had been approved across 750 districts, with 733 fully operational. These centres provide medical assistance, legal aid, psychosocial counselling, temporary shelter, and coordination with law enforcement, ensuring an integrated response to women facing violence.

Domestic violence remains the most common form of violence against women in India. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), many women experience physical, emotional, or sexual abuse from their husbands, with emotional abuse being reported most frequently. The survey also indicates that a significant proportion of men justify violence against their wives in certain circumstances, such as neglecting children, arguing, refusing sexual relations, or being disobedient, which contributes to the normalization of domestic violence. Evidence from the National Family Health Survey 2019 to 2021 indicates that nearly one in three ever married women between the ages of 18 and 49 have experienced physical or sexual abuse by their spouses, with emotional and psychological forms of coercion reported most frequently. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) shows that crimes categorized as “cruelty by husband or his relatives” account for the largest share of crimes against women, surpassing rape, kidnapping, or harassment. Both NFHS and NCRB reports indicate that Andhra Pradesh ranks among the southern states with the highest number of domestic violence cases, both in terms of reported incidents and attitudes that condone abuse. This study focuses on analyzing domestic violence cases reported at the One Stop Centre in Vizianagaram District during 2023 and 2024 to understand the patterns of violence, considering that Andhra Pradesh reports the highest number of domestic violence cases among southern states. The study aims to identify the dominant forms of domestic violence reported at the One Stop Centre in Vizianagaram District and to examine the utilization of One Stop Centre services. It also seeks to understand how state-level trends in domestic violence are reflected or differ at the district level, based on institutional records.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE:

The study by Babu and Kar (2009) investigates domestic violence against women in the eastern region of India, situating the issue within a public health framework and emphasizing prevalence and socio-economic correlates. This research highlights that violence against women extends beyond isolated incidents and represents a substantial public health burden, particularly in settings where many cases go unreported and under-documented. The study addresses a gap in community-based prevalence data specific to eastern Indian states, which had been less represented in the literature compared to northern, southern, and western regions. Using a population-based survey of married women and men from Orissa, West Bengal, and Jharkhand, the authors measured three principal forms of domestic violence: physical, psychological, and sexual. The findings indicate that more than half of women reported experiencing at least one form of violence in their lifetime, with psychological violence being particularly prevalent. Men’s self-reports generally indicated higher rates of physical and psychological violence, though sexual violence was reported more frequently by women. Husbands were identified as the primary perpetrators, and some reports included involvement of other family members such as in-laws. The study also explored associations between domestic violence and socio-economic factors. Urban residence, older age, lower education, and lower family income were all significantly related to higher prevalence of violence types. A community-based cross-sectional study conducted in rural Gurugram, Haryana, investigated the prevalence and determinants of domestic violence among married women aged 18–45 years (Shambhavi et al., 2019). Using systematic random sampling with a semi-structured questionnaire, the researchers found that 28% of surveyed women reported experiencing some form of domestic violence, indicating a substantial burden within this population. Emotional violence was the most frequently reported type (40.5%), followed by physical (33.4%), economic (21.4%), and sexual violence (4.7%). The study also identified significant associations between domestic violence and sociodemographic factors such as education level, employment status, and duration of marriage. These findings suggest that increased awareness and targeted public health interventions may be necessary to address both the prevalence and tolerance of domestic violence in rural Indian communities. Public health professionals are encouraged to enhance educational outreach and support services to empower women to recognize and respond to violence effectively (Shambhavi et al., 2019). A prospective community-based study conducted among 776 married women in a rural primary health care field practice area examined the prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of domestic violence (Pundkar, 2020). The respondents were selected through systematic random sampling and data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. Findings revealed that although most participants were literate, significant proportions of women reported experiences of domestic violence, indicating that education alone may not be protective in rural settings. The study identified several sociodemographic factors inversely related to the occurrence of domestic violence, including the age of the woman, educational level of both the woman and her spouse, age at marriage, and socioeconomic status. These factors highlight the complex interplay between social determinants and vulnerability to violence within marital relationships. The authors suggest that strengthening women’s economic status and educational attainment could enhance awareness and reduce vulnerability to domestic violence, potentially serving as protective factors against such abuse (Pundkar, 2020). This study underscores the need for targeted community interventions and policymaking that address structural inequalities and empower women in rural India. Divakaran Sreelatha et al. (2021) examined the prevalence and determinants of domestic violence among married women engaged in unskilled manual work in a rural community of Trivandrum district, Kerala. Using a community-based cross-sectional design, the study employed a validated questionnaire to assess psychological, physical, and sexual violence experienced by participants. The findings revealed that 26.76% of women reported experiencing domestic violence, with alcohol addiction among husbands and low educational levels identified as significant risk factors. The authors emphasize that domestic violence remains a critical public health challenge in disadvantaged rural settings, with implications for women’s physical and mental health. Their results align with broader evidence indicating that socioeconomic vulnerability and substance abuse are linked to greater incidence of intimate partner violence. The study underscores the need for multi-sectoral interventions, including literacy improvement, awareness of legal protections, and routine screening for violence in primary health care settings, to mitigate this pervasive issue among vulnerable populations (Divakaran Sreelatha et al., 2021). Roy (2022) reports on findings from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) that reveal the high prevalence of physical and sexual violence against women in India, underscoring a persistent public health concern. According to the NFHS-5 data, nearly 30% of women aged 18–49 have experienced physical violence since age 15, while about 6% have experienced sexual violence during their lifetime, highlighting the widespread nature of gender-based violence across the country. The survey further indicates that 32% of married women have faced physical, sexual, or emotional spousal violence, with physical violence being the most common form. Despite the magnitude of these experiences, only 14% of women who suffered violence reported it, reflecting significant underreporting and societal barriers to disclosure. Geographic and sociodemographic patterns show that violence is more common in rural areas than in urban settings and is inversely related to women’s education and wealth levels. Additionally, states such as Karnataka, Bihar, Telangana, and Manipur exhibit particularly high rates of domestic violence, with husbands identified as the perpetrators in the majority of physical violence cases. These findings demonstrate the entrenched nature of intimate partner violence and the need for enhanced policy interventions, community awareness, and support systems to protect women and facilitate reporting and prevention efforts (Roy, 2022; NFHS-5 data). Dandona et al. (2022) analyze nearly two decades of domestic violence reporting within India, using administrative data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) to assess trends and highlight limitations in surveillance systems. The study underscores persistent high rates of reported domestic violence against women, pointing to both increases and significant state-level variation. This research frames domestic violence not merely as a social problem but as a critical public health concern requiring strengthened data systems and improved intervention planning. The authors detail the methodological approach whereby NCRB data from 2001 to 2018 were extracted under four crime categories: cruelty by husband or relatives, dowry deaths, abetment of suicide, and cases registered under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) (Dandona et al., 2022). These categories represent a broad set of legally recorded offenses linked to domestic violence in India, though the authors note that the available administrative reporting structures result in undercounting and limited visibility of individual case details. Findings indicate that the rate of reported cruelty by husbands or their relatives increased by over 50% nationally from 2001 to 2018, with pronounced variation across states. For example, in 2018 the reported rate ranged from very low in some northeastern states to exceedingly high in others, reflecting regional differences in reporting practices, socio-demographic contexts, and enforcement effectiveness. Arrests for these crimes decreased over the study period, signaling challenges within the criminal justice response. Dowry deaths, another focus of the analysis, showed lower but persistent rates, disproportionately affecting low socio-demographic index (SDI) states. Jain, Singh, Bahadur Singh, Kaur, Taneja, and Fatima (2023) provide a critical examination of domestic violence against women in India, framing the issue both socially and legally. The authors define domestic violence as harm inflicted by family members that includes physical, psychological, and emotional abuse, highlighting that despite cultural norms that foreground respect for women, many Indian women continue to experience violence within the household. This contradiction between cultural ideals and lived realities reinforces the complexity of addressing domestic abuse in India. The article examines the legislative framework that seeks to protect women, particularly focusing on Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. These statutes are analyzed in terms of legal provisions and their application in practice, with the authors noting that while these laws are intended to penalize perpetrators and offer protection to survivors, implementation challenges often limit their effectiveness. The authors further discuss concerns about potential misuse, as some women reportedly invoke these legal mechanisms for reasons perceived to be retaliatory, though such claims are debated and contextualized within broader socio-legal discourse. In addition to legal analysis, the study situates domestic violence within the broader context of gender relations in India, observing that patriarchal norms and entrenched gender hierarchies contribute to the persistence of abuse. The authors also broaden the scope by acknowledging that men can be victims of domestic violence as well, suggesting that violence is a family issue that affects all genders, even as women disproportionately bear the burden of abuse. Shukla and Singh (2023) critically examine domestic violence against women in India, situating it as a pervasive violation of women’s human rights that persists despite legal protections and cultural rhetoric that outwardly esteem women. Their analysis emphasizes that domestic violence is deeply rooted in patriarchal social structures and manifests in multiple forms, including physical, psychological, and economic abuse. The authors note that domestic violence remains widespread across Indian households and argue that the phenomenon is maintained by cultural norms and structural inequalities that subordinate women. The paper draws on secondary data from national sources such as the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), the National Commission for Women (NCW), and government reports to illustrate patterns and prevalence of domestic abuse in India. It highlights alarming statistics showing that a substantial proportion of Indian women experience violence, with many cases going unreported due to fear, stigma, and mistrust of authorities. In defining the nature of domestic violence, the authors describe a range of harmful practices, including dowry-related abuse, verbal mistreatment, and severe forms of violence such as bride burning and female infanticide. These practices are interpreted not only as criminal acts but also as tools that uphold gendered power imbalances and inhibit women’s autonomy and dignity. Shukla and Singh (2023) also discuss factors that perpetuate domestic violence, such as low literacy, economic dependence, social pressure, and entrenched patriarchal beliefs that silence survivors. They emphasize that these structural factors reduce women’s likelihood of seeking help and contribute to chronic under-reporting of violence. The authors argue for stronger implementation of existing laws along with social and cultural change to challenge norms that enable abuse. The Government of India has implemented policy frameworks to support women affected by violence, including the One-Stop Centre (OSC) Scheme, which is designed to offer integrated services for women in distress, including survivors of domestic violence. According to the response to Rajya Sabha Un-starred Question No. 3836, as of April 2023, 801 One-Stop Centres had been approved across 750 districts, with 733 of these functional, illustrating the scale of implementation at the national level (Government of India, Ministry of Women and Child Development, 2023). The OSC Scheme, a key component of the Mission Shakti initiative, aims to provide medical, legal, police, psycho-social, and temporary shelter support under one roof to women affected by violence and distress, streamlining access to multisectoral services that survivors often need urgently. Established under the Ministry of Women and Child Development and funded through central schemes, OSCs are intended to address the fragmented nature of support services and improve coordination among agencies involved in responding to violence against women (Byju’s Free IAS Prep, n.d.; Government of India, Ministry of Women and Child Development, 2025). The data from parliamentary responses and scheme guidelines indicate significant governmental focus on expanding operational capacity and resources for OSCs, while highlighting ongoing challenges in implementation. Literature on policy responses to domestic violence underscores the importance of such integrated support mechanisms for enhancing protection, access to justice, and rehabilitation for survivors, particularly in contexts where social stigma and resource constraints limit reporting and service utilization. These institutional interventions are central to India’s public health and legal response to violence against women, supplementing statutory protections such as the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act of 2005 and broader efforts to empower women and ensure their safety (Byju’s Free IAS Prep, n.d.; Government of India, Ministry of Women and Child Development, 2023). Ahuja (2025) provides a detailed regional and cultural analysis of domestic violence, highlighting how social norms, gender roles, and economic structures influence the nature and prevalence of abuse across different parts of the country. The study emphasizes that domestic violence in India cannot be understood through a single national framework due to wide variations in cultural beliefs and social organization. According to Ahuja (2025), northern states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, and Rajasthan exhibit higher levels of domestic violence, largely driven by patriarchal values, dowry practices, and strong son preference. Women in these regions often face barriers to reporting abuse because of social stigma, family pressure, and economic dependence on male members. The normalization of male dominance further reinforces tolerance toward intimate partner violence. In southern India, including states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Telangana, higher literacy rates and comparatively progressive gender policies coexist with persistent domestic violence (Ahuja, 2025). The study notes that abuse in these regions is frequently underreported due to social expectations of preserving family honor. Additionally, women from marginalized caste groups face intersecting forms of discrimination that increase their vulnerability to domestic abuse. The eastern region, comprising states such as West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Assam, demonstrates how economic insecurity, labor migration, and certain traditional practices shape domestic violence patterns (Ahuja, 2025). In tribal and rural communities, informal justice systems often override formal legal mechanisms, limiting women’s access to protection and redress. In western India, particularly Maharashtra and Gujarat, Ahuja (2025) identifies a contrast between urban and rural experiences of domestic violence. While urban women often experience psychological and financial abuse, rural women are more likely to face severe physical violence. Although support services are available, patriarchal attitudes and delays in the justice system reduce their effectiveness. The northeastern states present a unique context where domestic violence is influenced by political conflict, militarization, and ethnic tensions (Ahuja, 2025). The study highlights the role of women-led community organizations in addressing both domestic violence and broader social instability. Overall, Ahuja (2025) concludes that addressing domestic violence in India requires region-specific strategies that integrate legal enforcement, community engagement, and cultural transformation. The study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the importance of localized interventions rather than uniform national responses. Verma (2025) explores domestic violence against women in India from both sociological and legal perspectives, situating domestic abuse within broader social structures and legal responses. The article emphasizes that domestic violence represents a pervasive violation of women’s human rights, rooted in entrenched gender norms, cultural practices, and unequal power relations within households (Verma, 2025). The author highlights how social and cultural dynamics contribute to the normalization and persistence of violence, reinforcing patriarchal control and limiting women’s autonomy and access to support. The review within the study outlines how domestic violence manifests in multiple forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse, and demonstrates how these behaviors are sustained by norms that privilege male authority and silence victims (Verma, 2025). Within Indian society, traditional expectations regarding family structure and gender roles are identified as key factors that both conceal abuse and reduce women’s likelihood of seeking help. Verma (2025) also assesses the legal framework designed to protect women, particularly the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. The article notes that although the Act represents a progressive statutory effort, significant gaps persist between the law’s provisions and its actual implementation, resulting in inconsistent protection for survivors and limited access to justice. Challenges include weak enforcement, lack of awareness among victims, and systemic barriers within the criminal justice system. Verma argues that effective responses require not only legal remedies but also socio-cultural interventions that transform harmful norms and empower women. The article underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy that integrates legal protections with community-based support, education, and empowerment efforts to better safeguard women and uphold their dignity.

2. MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This research follows a quantitative, retrospective study design and was carried out at the One Stop Centre (OSC) in Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh. The study utilised reported case records from the centre covering the period 2023–2024.Data were sourced from official OSC documentation related to domestic violence cases. The records provided details on the background characteristics of survivors, types of abuse reported, and case-related patterns. Only cases documented within the defined study period were considered for analysis. The collected data were organised and examined by using descriptive statistical techniques such as tabulation and categorical classification. Findings were presented in the form of tables and percentage distributions to facilitate an understanding of survivor demographics and to identify trends in the nature and reporting of cases. Throughout the research process, ethical principles were rigorously observed. Personal identification details were removed to protect the confidentiality of survivors. The study ensuring the data security, privacy and safety of victims, and all information was used only for academic purposes.

2.1 Research Design:

The study adopted a quantitative and retrospective research design. It is based on systematic examination of previously recorded domestic violence cases reported to the One Stop Centre, Vizianagaram district. The designed enabled the analysis of numerical data to describe patterns and characteristics of reported cases without any intervention by researcher.

2.2 Data Source and Sample:

The study comprises all domestic violence cases reported at the One Stop Centre, Vizianagaram district, during the period 2023-2024, by study adopted a census approach. The analysis was baesd on 190 domestic violence cases recorded during the study period.

2.3 Data Collection:

Data were collected from institutional records maintained by the One Stop Centre, Vizianagaram. The records related to domestic violence cases reported during the period 2023-2024. Relevant information related to the demographic profile of survivors and case characteristics was extracted using a structured data compilation format. No direct interaction with survivors was involved in the data collection process. Strict ethical precautions were followed during data handling. All identifiers were excluded to protect the anonymity of the survivors.

2.4 Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria:

Inclusive and Exclusive Criteria: The study included all domestic violence cases reported to the OSC, Vizianagaram, during 2023-2024. Cases outside the study period, cases reported outside Vizianagaram district were excluded from the study.

2.5 Data Analysis:

The total of 190 cases collected from the One Stop Centre over a two year- period enabled an examination of patterns in reported cases, including the age and educational background of survivors and the involvemen of husbands in the reported incidents.

Table 1: Age Distribution of Survivors.

Age Group (Years)	Number of Cases
18-25	66
26-35	79
36-45	39
46-55	6
Total	190

The examination of the age profile of survivors shows that reported cases were more common among younger women. Out of the total 190 cases, the largest share was observed in the 26-to-35-year age group with 79 cases. This was followed by 66 cases among survivors aged 18 to 25 years. The number of cases declined in the higher age categories, with 39 cases reported in the 36-to-45-year group and only six cases in the 46-to-55-year group. Overall, the distribution shows a higher concentration of reported cases among women between 18 and 35 years of age.

Table 2: Educational Background of Survivors

Educational Level	Number of Cases
No Formal Education	3
Primary Education	6
Upper Primary Education	21
Secondary Education	30
Higher Secondary Education	26
Graduated and above	22
Diploma	1
Not Reported	81
Total	190

The educational profile of survivors indicates wide variation, with incomplete documentation in a notable proportion of cases. Out of the total 190 cases, educational information was not reported for 81 survivors. Among the documented cases, secondary education was the most frequently reported level, accounting for 30 cases, followed by higher secondary education with 26 cases. Twenty-two survivors were educated at the graduate level and above, including one survivor with a doctoral degree. Upper primary education was reported in 21 cases, while six survivors had completed primary education. Three survivors reported having no formal education, and one case involved diploma level education. Overall, survivors represented diverse educational backgrounds, though missing data limits deeper analysis.

Table 3: Pattern of Reported Domestic Violence Cases

Pattern of Violence	Number of Cases
Physical Violence	107
Non-Physical Violence	83
Total	190

Table Note: Among the physical violence cases, two dowry related deaths as recorded in the institutional case files.

The pattern of violence among the reported cases shows a higher occurrence of physical violence compared to non physical forms. Out of the total 190 cases, 107 involved physical violence, while 83 cases were classified as non-physical violence. This distribution indicates that physical violence constituted a larger share of the reported cases. Among the cases of physical violence, two incidents involved dowry related deaths, representing the most severe outcomes documented in the records.

Table 4: Services Provided to Survivors at the One Stop Centre

Services Provided	Number of Cases
Psycho Social Counselling	50
Medico – Legal Support	45
Police assistance	3
Educational Support	1

Table note: Numbers represent cases for which documentation of service provision was available. Many reported cases did not have information on the services they received, so actual utilisation may be higher. Multiple services may have been provided to the same survivor.

The analysis of service provision shows that documentation was available only for a limited number of cases. Among the 190 reported cases, psycho social counselling was recorded for 50 survivors, making it the most frequently documented service. Medico-legal support was noted in 45 cases, while police assistance was documented in only three cases. Educational support was recorded in one case. The findings reflect partial documentation of service utilisation, and it is likely that additional services were provided but not captured in the institutional records. As multiple services may have been extended to the same survivor, the figures represent documented instances rather than exclusive categories.

Table 5: Perpetrators Involved in reported Domestic Violence Cases

Perpetrators	Number of Cases
Husband Alone	79
Husband and in-laws	6
Husband and Family Dispute	104
Family Dispute (perpetrator not specified)	1

The analysis of perpetrators shows that the husband was involved in the majority of reported cases. Out of the total 190 cases, 79 incidents involved the husband alone. In 104 cases, the records described the situation as a family dispute in which the husband was identified as the accused. A smaller number of cases, six, involved both the husband and in-laws. Only one case was recorded as a family dispute without the husband being specified or without identification of other perpetrators. Overall, the findings indicate that the husband was the primary accused across nearly all reported cases, either individually or in combination with other family members.

3. RESULTS:

· A high number of cases involved the husband along with family disputes, indicating that domestic violence often occurs within broader family conflicts rather than as isolated acts by the husband alone.

· The husband was involved in the vast majority of cases, either alone (79 cases) or in combination with family disputes or in-laws (110 cases), indicating that the husband is the primary perpetrator in most instances of domestic violence reported at the One Stop Centre.

· Physical violence emerged as the primary form of abuse experienced by survivors.

· Non-physical violence, including emotional or psychological abuse, was also reported, highlighting the multidimensional nature of domestic violence.

· The predominance of young adult survivors aged 18–35 years reporting to the One Stop Centre suggests a greater tendency among younger women to seek formal support for domestic violence, reflecting relatively higher awareness and utilisation of available services.

· Observation at the One Stop Centre indicated that many cases of domestic violence may go unreported due to prevailing social norms, fear of stigma, and family pressures.

· Survivors came from diverse educational backgrounds, indicating that domestic violence affects women across all levels of education, although incomplete records limit a full understanding of the educational profile.

· The findings indicate that psycho-social counselling is a central support service for survivors, addressing emotional distress and facilitating access to legal and other formal services.

· The predominance of physical violence among reported cases highlights a greater need for medico-legal support for survivors.

· The study indicates the need for a trained social worker at the One Stop Centre to provide follow-up support, manage cases involving family disputes, and coordinate psycho-social, medical, and legal services for survivors.

4. DISCUSSION:

The present study examined domestic violence cases reported at the One Stop Centre in Vizianagaram district during 2023–2024. The findings provide insight into the nature of abuse, survivor profiles, and the utilisation of services at the Centre. The age distribution of survivors indicates that the majority of cases were reported by young women aged 18–35 years. This suggests that younger women may have greater awareness of formal support systems and are more likely to seek help for domestic violence. However, underreporting among older age groups may mask the true prevalence of abuse, reflecting cultural and social barriers that inhibit reporting. The educational profile of survivors shows that domestic violence affects women across all levels of education, from no formal schooling to PhD holders. This indicates that formal education alone does not prevent domestic violence, highlighting gaps in the current educational system, such as limited implementation of comprehensive sexuality education. Inclusion of CSE could promote awareness about rights, consent, healthy relationships, and gender equality, equipping both women and men to recognize and prevent abuse. The presence of many unreported education details also highlights gaps in documentation.

Analysis of the type of violence revealed that physical abuse was the most commonly reported form, with some cases including severe outcomes such as dowry-related deaths. Non-physical abuse, including emotional and psychological violence, was also significant, demonstrating that domestic violence is multidimensional. The predominance of physical violence underscores the critical need for timely medical and legal interventions.

The perpetrator profile shows that most cases involved the husband, either alone or in combination with family disputes or in-law involvement. This emphasizes that domestic violence often occurs within broader family dynamics rather than as isolated acts by an individual. Family disputes appear to create environments where abuse is more likely, highlighting the need for interventions that consider the entire household context.

Service utilisation data indicate that psycho-social counselling and medico-legal support were the most frequently documented services, though many cases lacked complete records. The counselling provided plays a central role in helping survivors cope with emotional distress and access legal and protective mechanisms. The high prevalence of physical violence further underscores the importance of medico-legal support for injury documentation and legal proceedings.

Field observations at the One Stop Centre revealed that many cases of domestic violence may remain unreported due to social norms, fear of stigma, and family pressure. Language barriers during data collection also limited communication, highlighting challenges in both service provision and record-keeping. The absence of a social worker limits follow-up and management of cases involving family disputes, which was highlighted by the study’s data and field observations.

Overall, the study demonstrates the critical role of One Stop Centres in responding to domestic violence, while highlighting gaps in follow-up, documentation, and professional support. The findings suggest the need for strengthened psycho-social counselling, the appointment of a trained social worker to ensure follow-up and manage family dispute cases, enhanced community awareness programs, and family-focused interventions. Additionally, integrating comprehensive sexuality education into the formal education system could help prevent abuse by raising awareness and promoting gender equality among young people.

5. SOCIAL WORK INTERVENTIONS:

· Psycho-social counselling: Provide emotional support, teach coping mechanisms to manage stress and trauma, and empower survivors to make informed decisions.

· Case management and follow-up: Track survivor progress after counselling, medico-legal, or police support, ensuring continuity of care and ongoing safety.

· Coordination with services: Act as a bridge between survivors and medical, legal, and educational support systems, ensuring access and efficient utilisation.

· Family-focused interventions: Aim to address domestic violence within broader family contexts. Social workers can facilitate safe mediation, educate family members on gender equality and legal rights, provide supportive counselling, develop safety plans for survivors, refer to relevant services, and monitor outcomes to ensure ongoing protection.

· Community awareness and prevention: Collaborate with ICDS, ASHA workers, and local NGOs to raise awareness about domestic violence, promote gender equality, and identify cases early.

· Safety planning and risk assessment: Help survivors develop strategies for immediate safety and identify high-risk situations that require protective action.

5.1 Suggestions:

· Comprehensive sexuality education should be integrated into school and community programs to raise awareness about gender-based violence, promote gender equality, and empower young people to recognize abuse and seek support.

· Proper premarital counselling should be encouraged to raise awareness about gender equality, healthy relationships, conflict resolution, and legal rights, thereby helping to prevent domestic violence before marriage.

· Promote community awareness programs about the harmful effects of family disputes on women and children, utilizing existing platforms such as ICDS services to reach families effectively.

· Leverage the support of ASHA workers and ICDS staff to conduct awareness programs, community surveys, and early identification of domestic violence cases, ensuring that survivors are informed about available services and that data is collected to guide targeted interventions.

Given the high number of cases involving family disputes and the need for follow-up support, it is recommended that a trained social worker be appointed at the Vizianagaram One Stop Centre to provide counselling, manage cases, facilitate family interventions safely, and ensure systematic follow-up of.

6. CONCLUSION:

The study of domestic violence cases reported at the One Stop Centre in Vizianagaram district during 2023–2024 highlights the complex and multidimensional nature of abuse experienced by women. The majority of survivors were young adults, and violence often occurred within broader family contexts involving husbands and in-laws. Physical violence was the most commonly reported form, emphasizing the critical need for medico-legal and psycho-social support. The findings also show that survivors come from diverse educational backgrounds, indicating that domestic violence affects women across all levels of education, and that gaps in awareness, reporting, and follow-up remain significant challenges. Field observations revealed that social norms, fear of stigma, and limited professional support contribute to underreporting and hinder timely interventions. This study underscores the importance of strengthening the One Stop Centre through the appointment of trained social workers, enhancing counselling and follow-up services, addressing family disputes, and promoting community awareness programs. Additionally, integrating education on gender equality and rights, including comprehensive sexuality education, can empower individuals and communities to prevent violence. Overall, a coordinated and holistic approach is essential to support survivors, reduce domestic violence, and promote safer family and community environments.

7. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST:

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

8. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:

The authors acknowledge the support of the One Stop Centre, Vizianagaram, for providing access to institutional records.

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Received on 26.06.2026 Revised on 21.07.2026

Accepted on 10.08.2026 Published on 22.08.2026

Available online from August 25, 2026

Res. J. of Humanities and Social Sciences. 2026;17(3):173-181.

DOI: 10.52711/2321-5828.2026.00033

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