Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of the book. The book provides an overview of feminism and what it implies for our lives and especially how it informs our worldview. Reflecting on the numerous social movements in India the section provides the historical context to the recognition of domestic violence as a critical women’s rights issue. The book argues for a feminist conceptualisation of domestic violence and brings to fore the challenges faced by the feminist movement from communal forces, the judiciary, and other public institutions. Feminist-informed counselling, on the other hand, places psychological distress in a socio-cultural context and recognises the power imbalance between men and women which reinforces abuse. The establishment of a counselling centre draws attention to several issues relating to setting standards for counselling, ensuring the safety of the staff, interaction with the media, researchers and other institutions.