Awareness Programme on the theme “Break the Silence: Creating Awareness on Domestic Violence”

The School of Humanities and Social Sciences organized a One-Day Awareness Programme on the theme “Break the Silence: Creating Awareness on Domestic Violence” on 7th October 2026. The programme was organized with the objective of creating awareness among students/supporting staff of our university about domestic violence, its various forms, warning signs, psychological and social consequences, legal rights, and available support services.

Domestic violence is a serious social, public health and human rights concern that can affect individuals irrespective of age, education, gender, or socio-economic background. It may take various forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, verbal, and economic abuse. Lack of awareness, fear, stigma, social pressure, and limited knowledge of support mechanisms often prevent victims from seeking timely help.

The programme provided an interactive platform for students/supporting staff to understand the issue, discuss their perceptions, and learn about appropriate ways of responding to situations involving domestic violence.

The programme commenced with a key note address by Prof.(Dr.) Preeti Tiwary, Dean SHSS followed by a video presentation on domestic violence, which helped participants understand the seriousness and impact of the issue. 

A skit was presented to portray realistic situations related to domestic violence. The skit helped participants understand how abuse may occur in everyday family situations irrespective of sex and age. The skit highlighted the importance of identifying warning signs and seeking timely support.

Dr. Shailja Joshi further addressed the psychological aspects of domestic violence, including emotional distress, fear, anxiety, loss of confidence, and other possible consequences of prolonged abuse. Information regarding legal rights, protection mechanisms, and helpline/support services was also shared with the participants.

The programme concluded with an interactive session in which participants shared their experiences, views, and feedback. The participants actively engaged in the discussion and expressed that the programme enhanced their understanding of domestic violence and the importance of speaking up against abuse.

At the end vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Lata Sati, Assistant Professor, Department of Applied and Interdisciplinary sciences, SHSS.

The programme successfully created an open and informative environment for discussing a sensitive social issue.  The programme also emphasized that domestic violence should not be considered a private family matter when an individual’s safety, dignity, and rights are at risk. Participants were encouraged to break the silence, support survivors, avoid victim-blaming, and promote respectful relationships within families and communities. It also highlighted the importance of psychological support, legal awareness, and timely access to support services.

The programme was coordinated by Dr. Lata Sati, Dr. Shailja Joshi and Dr. Pratibha Singh.