Health System Response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic-induced Violence against Women

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected all the sections of the community, while the situation pertaining to women and girls is complex, as they have been subjected to incidents of violence. Even though, the data on violence against women during the ongoing COVID-19 emergency is not adequate, nevertheless reports of rising incidence of domestic violence has been reported. The outbreak has resulted in a stressful condition with disruption in the daily routine and has even accounted for financial hardships. From the public health perspective, such a risk just cannot be ignored and we have to be prompt in addressing these needs during even emergencies. In general, the health care delivery system has a crucial role to ensure that victims of violence remain safe and accessible during the entire outbreak. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has accounted for a simultaneous rise in the incidence of violence against women and thus the health sector has to improve their preparedness to respond to the challenge and ensure that the rights of women are not violated.