Nysa and Mehul completed their post-graduation from different Universities and got placed in Bhubaneswar. They got to know each other in the office and started going out sometimes. Gradually they both developed feelings for each other but they weren't quite sure about commitments.
One of their friends suggested them to give a thought about a live-in relationship. After some discussion, they found this idea much practical and feasible as well.
Nysa and Mehul started living together and the first two years went smoothly but gradually Nysa got to know about Mehul’s true nature. He was abusive and toxic. When Nysa was about to get a promotion, Mehul asked her to quit the job as there is no need for her to earn. Nysa ignored what Mehul said and this pissed him off. Mehul started abusing Nysa and demotivated her.
Nysa went into depression and her promotion offer was given to somebody else as she was not able to give her 100% at work. Nysa felt dejected. After few months, she lost her job. She became economically disabled.
When her parents got to know about everything, they suggested she complain to Mehul under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. This act provides for more effective protection of the rights of women guaranteed under the constitution who are victims of violence of any kind occurring within the family and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
Nysa was educated so she decided to do what her parents suggested and this idea also seemed very right to her. After the hearing, the magistrate asked Mehul to give an undertaking that he would be respectful and kind towards Nysa. Mehul agreed to give an undertaking but Nysa felt the need to get out of the toxic relationship. Even after getting a lot of apologies from Mehul, Nysa had made up her mind to become financially independent again which was not possible to do in her present state of mind.
Nysa is on medication to cope with the depression she has suffered as a consequence of Mehul’s abuse. She is trying hard to get back where she was previously. She is looking for jobs and hopes to re-establish her position.
-Prepared by Bagmi Barenya Nayak, Research intern at Stambh Organization India
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