Prevalence and Factors Associated with Domestic Violence: The Case of Marginalised and Dalit Women in Madesh Province, Nepal

Domestic violence against women (DVW) is one of the major social problems in Nepal. Nepal’s demographic and health survey shows a high prevalence of DVW in the country, but it does not provide a disaggregated analysis for marginalised and Dalit women of Nepal. This study aimed to fill this research gap by drawing upon the case from Madesh Province, Nepal. Primary data were collected from 758 currently married women, along with several focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to analyse the quantitative data. Findings reveal that the current prevalence rate of domestic/spousal violence (physical or sexual) was very high in the study area (51%). Women with at least secondary education can have greater detrimental effects in reducing spousal violence compared to women with no education (adjusted odds ratio, AOR 0.609). Women with media exposure have significantly lower AOR (0.618) than their counterparts. Experiences of non-partner sexual violence were found to be a major risk factor for the prevalence of spousal violence. The AORs for marginalised but non-Dalit and marginalised Dalit were very high compared to the non-marginalised group (1.740 and 2.428, respectively). Women who were not victims of childhood sexual abuse were significantly less likely to experience spousal violence (AOR 0.401) compared to their counterparts. Dowry practices have been linked to violence against women (VAW), and women are both the survivors and agents of violence. A comprehensive VAW prevention approach is needed, which gives special attention to the marginalised, Dalit women by integrating development initiatives with it.