Goa has a thriving tourism industry, a top literacy rate, a progressive outlook, and a high standard of living. However, underneath the glamour and appeal lies a grim undercurrent — the pervasive issue of domestic violence. Statistics reveal a dark reality: Last year, on average, one case of child or woman abuse was logged every day. A comprehensive study conducted recently by NGO Anyay Rahit Zindagi (ARZ) sheds light on the myriad challenges faced by victims in Goa. The report, titled “Shining a Light on Domestic Violence: Challenges and Solutions,” highlights the cases that go unregistered and unreported. It reveals that in Mormugao alone, 60 cases of domestic violence were reported last year, with only one being formally registered.
The December 2024 report by the Victim Assistance Unit (VAU) noted that roughly five women and children become victims of crime weekly. Yet, the decline in police reports during early 2025 suggests that many cases remain hidden or unregistered, possibly due to the reluctance of victims or the hesitation of authorities to act.
The obvious question is why Goa, which is seen as a vibrant State, has such high instances of domestic violence. Two major factors have been linked to this menace. First, widespread alcohol consumption, and second, the deeply embedded patriarchal attitudes in society. It is quite shameful that women have been treated with disdain at a time when, politically and socially, the discourse is about women's empowerment and quotas.
The second question is, where is Goa failing? While there are hundreds of cases that are detected, very few are registered. The discrepancy highlights a disturbing pattern of underreporting, driven by factors ranging from fear and shame to slow legal processes. The true magnitude of the problem remains obscured by systemic failures, social stigma, and institutional apathy.
A progressive State has taken a step backwards when it comes to domestic violence, because victims fear losing or being further victimised. Law enforcement agencies often discourage victims from filing complaints, prioritising social interventions over legal action. The system exudes a vibe that legal recourse could lead to a never-ending cycle of further woes. Counseling and informal resolution are the preferred routes, not legal recourse. Goa also lacks support infrastructure. The appointment of part-time Protection Officers—often untrained and overburdened—compromises the objective of safeguarding survivors. In a distressing situation, the priority is for female counselors to provide comfort and solace. NGOs are doing their fair bit, but the struggle is visible with limited resources.
While addressing this crisis, the government must streamline legal processes to ensure cases are decided within the mandated 60 days, and appoint full-time, trained Protection Officers, especially women. Other crucial steps include upgrading women's shelter homes and a 24/7 support system. Above all, steps need to be taken to dismantle the social stigma attached to the issue and educate victims about their right to a dignified living.
The gap between reported and actual cases reflects a failure at multiple levels — legal, institutional, and societal. Recognising domestic violence as a serious violation of human rights, and not merely a private matter, is the first step toward fostering a safer environment for women and children. Goa has a long way to go and will need a collective effort and a strong will to turn the tide and ensure justice for its most vulnerable citizens.
