Analysis of deaths due to gender-based violence: An autopsy-based cross-sectional study from Mumbai

Gender-based violence (GBV), including domestic violence, honor killings, and dowry deaths, represents one of the most extreme forms of violence against women. These deaths are often misclassified as accidents or suicides due to societal biases, leading to underreporting and obscuring the true impact of GBV on women's mortality.

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of GBV-related deaths, with a focus on cases misreported as accidents or suicides. The objective was to determine the proportion of female deaths attributable to GBV and to highlight the challenges in reporting and investigating these cases.

A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at a medical teaching institution in Mumbai, analyzing 5 years (May 2017-April 2022) of autopsy data involving unnatural female deaths. Autopsy records, police reports, and victim/relative statements were examined to identify potential GBV cases and discrepancies in death classification.

The study found a significant proportion of female deaths attributed to GBV, primarily within domestic settings. Many cases initially reported as accidents or suicides showed discrepancies in injury patterns and circumstances. The majority of GBV victims were young women aged 15-44 years, with burns being the most common cause of death.

The study emphasizes the need for improved investigation and classification of unnatural female deaths. Domestic violence emerged as the most common factor in these deaths, with intimate partners being primary perpetrators, with most incidents occurring within the home. It also stresses on enhanced protocols to accurately identify and address GBV-related fatalities.