In the heart of Punjab, the cradle of Sikhism, where the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji emphasize equality, respect for women, and justice, alarming trends of domestic violence and marital breakdowns are emerging. While Sikh society has historically prided itself on strong family bonds and low divorce rates, modernization, economic pressures, migration, substance abuse, and shifting gender roles are challenging these foundations. Data from national surveys, NCRB reports, and community studies reveal an increase in reported cases, though underreporting remains rampant due to stigma, family honor, and community pressure.
Sikhism, founded in the 15th century, promotes gender equality more explicitly than many traditions.
The Guru Granth Sahib advocates for women’s rights, and historical figures like Mai Bhago exemplify female strength. Traditionally, divorce was rare and stigmatized in Punjabi Sikh families—often viewed as a last resort. Marriages were arranged, emphasizing family compatibility over individual choice, with joint families providing informal mediation.
However, post-Partition migration, the Green Revolution’s economic shifts in Punjab, and globalization have altered dynamics.
Urbanization, women’s education and workforce participation, and exposure to global media have empowered women to speak out, while patriarchal residues, dowry expectations, alcohol and drug issues common in Punjab, and in-law interference persist.According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21), nationally about 32% of ever-married women aged 18-49 experienced spousal violence. In Punjab, 15% reported physical or sexual violence, lower than the national average but still significant. Emotional violence was also notable. More recent indications suggest a slight decline, possibly due to greater awareness, though underreporting continues. NCRB data shows “cruelty by husband or relatives” as the most reported crime against women, with Punjab contributing thousands of cases annually.
Divorce rates, once almost non-existent in Sikh communities, are rising sharply, especially in urban areas of Punjab. Community discussions and court records indicate a surge in filings, driven by economic independence of women, incompatibility in arranged marriages, infidelity, and domestic abuse as a trigger. Younger generations are increasingly challenging the traditional “stay for family honor” mindset. A British Sikh Report from 2018 noted around 4-5% divorced or separated in diaspora communities, with similar patterns emerging in India.
Real-life examples illustrate the crisis. Many Sikh women report emotional and physical abuse, control by husbands and in-laws, and harassment over dowry or producing sons, despite Sikhism’s rejection of such practices. In joint families, multi-perpetrator abuse involving husbands and in-laws is common. During the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns led to spikes in helpline calls, highlighting how isolation worsened existing tensions. Survivors often stay silent due to fear of ostracism and economic dependence, but educated women are increasingly seeking legal recourse under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act 2005.
Substance abuse, particularly high rates of alcohol and drugs in Punjab, is frequently linked to domestic aggression. Economic stress from farmer crises, unemployment, and migration further strain relationships. Urbanization and nuclear families reduce traditional mediation, while social media influences expectations around marriage.The impacts are far-reaching. Children suffer trauma and instability from broken homes. The broader Sikh community faces erosion of its social fabric and rising mental health challenges. For NGOs working with needy people, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity to intervene through awareness drives in gurdwaras, counseling centers, and legal aid programs.
The way forward lies in community-led solutions rooted in Sikh principles. Pre-marital counseling programs that emphasize Guru Sahib’s teachings on equality, open discussions during langar at gurdwaras, and greater economic empowerment of women can help. Newspapers and social organizations must amplify survivor voices, share helplines such as the National Commission for Women (182) or emergency police (100/112), and profile success stories of families that have healed or supported women leaving abusive situations. This trend is not inevitable. By returning to the core Sikh values of equality, compassion, and justice while adapting to modern realities, the community can protect families and support those in need. As someone deeply involved in both journalism and NGO work for the underprivileged, I believe raising awareness is the first step toward meaningful change.
Helplines: National Commission for Women – 182 | Police – 100 or 112 | Local Punjab support organizations.