Responses to domestic violence - Government and non-government action in Karnataka and Gujarat

Minimally construed as the physical, mental, emotional and sexual abuse of a woman in her intimate relationship, domestic violence in the Indian context includes intimidating acts by the members (both men and women) of her marital family. Often condoned by culture, such systemic violence enforces gender inequality by curtailing a woman's freedom and right to self-determination. How do government and non-government organisations respond to complaints of domestic violence by women victims or their families, or even outsiders? What problems do the agencies face in constructing a response?