Granny a true friend to victims of domestic violence

Victims of domestic violence who are unable to stand up for themselves against their aggressors are turning to grandmother S. Thanaletchumi for help and advice.

The 72-year-old retired teacher, who operates from her house with a monthly mobile allowance of RM80 from a non-profit organisation, listens and counsels them.
Her advice is usually for them to lodge police reports.
“I have come across so many women who feel that being beaten up by their spouses or their in-laws is part of what a woman faces in a marriage,” she said.
“Some have endured torture for several years due to poverty and lack of education.”
She added that in one case, not only did a man beat up his wife, he also encouraged their young son to join in.
Thanaletchumi, who gets an average of three calls a day, said she does not have any formal method to deal with the issues.