By B. V. Tripurari Swami http://www.swami.org/sanga

Question:      From the Vedic point of view, if a husband beats his wife and drinks can she divorce him?

Answer:      If a husband abuses his wife and this cannot be resolved, she should not remain with him. Domestic violence is not uncommon in today's society, and if it persists, a Hindu woman can remarry. Overall we have to realize that we are not living in ancient Vedic society, and thus we have to adjust accordingly. We should not misconstrue details appropriate for that society to be principles that are applicable at all times.