Husbands should know how to value and respect their wives - Sanatan Dharm

A call is being made for harsh punishment for perpetrators of domestic violence as it is saddening that such cases continue to increase every year.

Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji’s National Vice President based in Labasa, Hanuman Rao says husbands should know how to respect their wives.

He says the Hindu scripture - Ramayan teaches us profound lessons about respect, exemplified through Lord Ram's love for Goddess Sita.

He says this highlights how women should be valued, respected and treated with dignity within their homes and communities.

The National Vice President says the 16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women gives us an opportunity to reflect on the teachings however, this should not be addressed during the specific events only.

Rao adds that we should continue to voice out cases of ill-treatment towards women and girls.

Meanwhile, Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre Coordinator Shamima Ali has revealed that two women have lost their lives this year alone while 53 women have lost their lives over the past 11 years.

If you are being subjected to domestic violence and need help, you can call the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 1560.