Rising Number of Women Committing Murders: Experts Cite Emotional Instability, Poor Coping Mechanisms

New Delhi – A noticeable rise in women being involved in the murder of their husbands is increasingly being linked to emotional dysfunction and inadequate coping skills, according to mental health professionals.

Experts have raised concerns over a growing pattern of intimate partner violence where women are the perpetrators. From the shocking honeymoon murder in Meghalaya to a man’s body being found in a cement-sealed drum in Meerut, these cases have ignited a debate about the mental health and emotional stability of the women involved.

“These crimes shouldn’t be viewed simply as men or women being the aggressors. Rather, they should be seen as human tragedies rooted in emotional disturbances, poor coping abilities, and impaired judgment,” said Dr. Shiv Prasad, Professor and Head of the Psychiatry Department at Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi.

The issue gained public attention following incidents like the suicide of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash, who accused his wife in a 1.5-hour video, and the murder of Raja Raghuvanshi by his wife during their honeymoon. Such cases have not only shocked the public but also triggered misogynistic backlash, threatening the progress made in gender equality.

“It’s essential to understand that these acts are not signs of empowered women, but rather of women suffering from severe psychological distress. Conflating these ideas harms the movement for gender equality and distracts from the actual issue—mental health problems,” Dr. Prasad emphasized.

He noted that today’s women are dealing with a wide range of stressors—economic, emotional, social, and existential—which contribute to psychological strain. Often, relationship power struggles add to the pressure.

“Violent outcomes may result when unresolved trauma, fear of abandonment, emotional instability, or unrealistic expectations meet triggers like betrayal, rejection, or overwhelming family burdens,” he explained.

Experts say the changing nature of relationships in India—from joint to nuclear families—is also playing a role.

“Our mindset has shifted from ‘we’ to ‘me,’ where individual needs now often take priority over collective family or societal values,” said Dr. Rajiv Mehta, Vice Chairperson of Psychiatry at a prominent Delhi hospital.

He added that patience among couples is dwindling, and many believe they are smart and powerful enough to escape the consequences of their actions.

The experts also warned that modern relationships, while appearing connected through social media, are often emotionally shallow and driven by unrealistic expectations, clashing with traditional family structures and values.

“Relationships today are often centered on individualism rather than mutual dependence. Many fail to recognize that marriage involves navigating complex family dynamics, not just the couple’s personal connection,” Dr. Prasad concluded.

With inputs from IANS

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