Pune: Following the highly publicised domestic violence case involving Vaishnavi Hagawane, Pune has witnessed a significant increase in women stepping forward to report abuse. What was once a silent epidemic is now receiving overdue attention, with survivors reaching out to police units, helplines, and support centres across the city.
The Bharosa Cell, an initiative of the Pune city police dedicated to assisting women, children, and senior citizens facing abuse, has emerged as a crucial support system. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime), Nikhil Pingale, the Hagawane case acted as a trigger, encouraging more victims to speak up. “There has been a visible rise in the number of women approaching various support systems. The case empowered many to break their silence. We focus not just on filing complaints, but also on providing support and acting in line with Supreme Court directives. Many cases are resolved through counselling and do not always require registration,” he said.
Senior Inspector Santosh Pandhare, who heads the Bharosa Cell, reported a sharp increase in weekly case filings. “Earlier, we handled about 18 new cases per week. Now, the number has surged to between 50 and 80. These reports come not just from volunteers but also from the women’s commission and NGOs,” he said. Pandhare added that after the Hagawane case, many parents began checking in on their daughters’ wellbeing, which brought several distressing situations to light. “Some cases are being resolved through counselling, which helps prevent extreme steps by women,” he added.
Rupali Chakankar, Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission, confirmed the rise in reports and stated that her office is addressing complaints based on jurisdiction and urgency.
Women’s rights activist Kiran Moghe voiced concern over the systemic gaps. “Despite the Dowry Act of 1980 and the Domestic Violence Act of 2005, victims are still struggling to access justice. The law mandates resolution of such cases within three months, but implementation remains slow. While infrastructure projects take precedence, women’s safety continues to be sidelined,” she said.
Warning Signs of Domestic Abuse
Frequent or unexplained injuries
Withdrawal from social connections
Anxiety or fearfulness around certain individuals
Sudden changes in mood or appearance
Common Forms of Domestic Abuse
Physical: Hitting, choking, slapping
Emotional: Threats, manipulation, humiliation
Sexual: Coerced intimacy, marital rape
Financial: Restricting access to money or resources
Digital: Online stalking, digital surveillance, threats
