Marital Rape: An Analysis
- IJLLR Journal
- Apr 21, 2023
- 1 min read
Aditi Agrawal, Manipal University Jaipur
Introduction
Marital rape is a form of sexual violence that occurs between spouses or intimate partners. It is a type of sexual assault that is often overlooked, ignored, or trivialized due to cultural, social, and legal factors. It is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. According to a report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), about 10-14% of women worldwide have experienced sexual violence at the hands of their partner.
In many countries, marital rape is not recognized as a crime, and it is not punishable by law. This means that victims of marital rape often have no legal recourse and may not be able to seek justice or protection from their abusers.
The effects of marital rape can be devastating and long-lasting. Victims may experience physical injuries, emotional trauma, and psychological distress. They may also suffer from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
In addition to the immediate effects of the assault, victims of marital rape may also experience long-term consequences, including relationship difficulties, decreased self-esteem, and a sense of powerlessness. One of the reasons why marital rape is often overlooked is because of the societal belief that a person cannot be raped by their spouse or intimate partner. This misconception stems from the historical view of marriage as a contract between a man and a woman, with the man having complete control over the woman's body.
