Ahmedabad: A woman from the western part of the city approached the Abhayam 181 women’s helpline complaining about mental and physical harassment. The woman reportedly told counsellors that despite his HIV positive status, her husband forced her into intimacy, and when she did not comply, he regularly abused and assaulted her. The helpline counselled the couple, after which the man is said to have assured the team that he would not repeat his behaviour. “The woman told us that she has been married for about 10 years, and they have a son aged eight years. About two years ago, her husband was diagnosed as HIV positive. The news was not taken well by the man, and he insisted on maintaining a normal physical relationship. The woman protested and also said that conceiving another child might hamper its health,” said a counsellor.The man reportedly took to alcohol and also started abusing and assaulting her. “The woman claimed that she supported the man during the difficult times and held on to hope that she would keep the family together. However, the husband tried to throw her out, prompting her to seek help. The couple was informed about the legal framework as the woman said she did not want to approach the police. The man realised his mistake and assured us that he will mend his behaviour,” said the counsellor.
