NEW DELHI: As the nation celebrates Karvachauth, a traditional festival symbolizing the bond between husband and wife, an unusual case has emerged from Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh.
Amidst the festive moon sightings and celebrity headlines, a man lodged a complaint with the local police against his wife, who he claims has a daily drinking habit, forcing him to drink alongside her.
The couple, married just two months, has already encountered marital turbulence due to the wife’s alcohol consumption. According to the husband, her evening routine of consuming 3-4 pegs has put a strain on their relationship. He expressed that he cannot afford this lifestyle, emotionally or financially.
The local police, reportedly taken aback by the nature of the complaint, summoned the wife for questioning. In an unexpected turn, she accused her husband of physical abuse, adding complexity to the case.
Dr. Shriram Kaurav, MD of MY Hospital, Indore, shared his insights on such cases of alcohol addiction, particularly among women.
He noted that the habit often begins with social drinking and eventually develops into a dependency. “The rise of alcohol consumption among women is influenced by societal changes, including empowerment and shifts in gender roles,” he said, adding that while individual choice is important, the impacts on family life, particularly for those of childbearing age, should not be overlooked.
This incident shines a spotlight on changing dynamics in Indian households, particularly concerning alcohol consumption, which has historically been a male-dominated vice in the country. According to the National Family Health Survey-4 (NFHS-4), while 29.2% of men consume alcohol, only 1.2% of women do.
Despite the relatively low percentage, female alcohol consumption is gradually rising, reflecting shifting societal norms.
India is the third-largest market globally for alcoholic beverages, following China and Russia. As alcohol becomes more accessible, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas, both men and women are increasingly indulging in the practice.
However, this rise in consumption is often met with mixed reactions due to cultural, religious, and regional values, with alcohol still regarded as taboo in many parts of the country.
As alcohol consumption among women becomes more prominent, the health implications are also critical. Experts emphasize the importance of education and awareness about the unique effects of alcohol on women’s bodies, encouraging responsible drinking habits.