{"id":5681,"date":"2025-07-02T10:51:34","date_gmt":"2025-07-02T10:51:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/?p=5681"},"modified":"2025-07-02T10:51:45","modified_gmt":"2025-07-02T10:51:45","slug":"human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/","title":{"rendered":"Human Rights In India: Neglection Of Men\u2019s Right"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span>Introduction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Human rights, as protected under national and international frameworks, aim to safeguard the dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of gender, caste, or race. In the Indian context, the policy and legal system have primarily focused on women&#8217;s empowerment due to the historical injustices and structural discrimination women have faced. While this is an important and necessary conversation, an exclusive focus on women&#8217;s issues often sidelines the discourse around men&#8217;s rights.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Framework_Under_Indian_and_International_Law\" >Framework Under Indian and International Law<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Human_Rights_under_Indian_Law\" >Human Rights under Indian Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Human_Rights_in_International_Law\" >Human Rights in International Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Gender_Equality_and_Gender_Neutrality\" >Gender Equality and Gender Neutrality<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Neglected_Mens_Legal_Rights\" >Neglected Men&#8217;s Legal Rights<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Family_Law_and_Custody_Disputes\" >Family Law and Custody Disputes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Domestic_Violence_Laws\" >Domestic Violence Laws<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Dowry_and_False_Accusations\" >Dowry and False Accusations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Mens_Rights_and_Mental_Health\" >Men\u2019s Rights and Mental Health<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Human_Resource_and_Infrastructure\" >Human Resource and Infrastructure<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Mental_Health_and_Men_in_India\" >Mental Health and Men in India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Barriers_to_Mental_Health_Access_for_Men\" >Barriers to Mental Health Access for Men<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Stress_Factors\" >Stress Factors<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Recent_Trends_and_Positive_Developments\" >Recent Trends and Positive Developments<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Role_of_NGOs\" >Role of NGOs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Legal_Recognition_Of_Male_Victims_In_Other_Areas\" >Legal Recognition Of Male Victims In Other Areas<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Sexual_Harassment_at_Workplace\" >Sexual Harassment at Workplace<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Rape_and_Sexual_Violence\" >Rape and Sexual Violence<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Biases_Against_Men\" >Biases Against Men<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Policy_and_Advocacy_Movements\" >Policy and Advocacy Movements<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Challenges_to_Mens_Rights_Advocacy\" >Challenges to Men\u2019s Rights Advocacy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/human-rights-in-india-neglection-of-mens-right\/#Recommendations\" >Recommendations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>This is not a matter of comparison or competition over who faces more challenges\u2014it is about inclusivity. Just as women face issues such as rape, domestic violence, and assault, men too encounter serious challenges. False accusations, denial of custodial rights, domestic violence, mental health struggles, and unfair labor practices are often overlooked. Cases of rape and assault against men are frequently dismissed or ridiculed.<\/p>\n<p>In light of the growing number of crimes against men, it is essential to address this imbalance and advocate for a broader narrative that includes men&#8217;s rights in India.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Framework_Under_Indian_and_International_Law\"><\/span>Framework Under Indian and International Law<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Human_Rights_under_Indian_Law\"><\/span>Human Rights under Indian Law<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Article 14:<\/strong> Right to Equality<\/li>\n<li><strong>Article 15:<\/strong> Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth<\/li>\n<li><strong>Article 19:<\/strong> Right to Freedom<\/li>\n<li><strong>Article 21:<\/strong> Protection of Life and Personal Liberty<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These constitutional provisions guarantee equality and protection of life and liberty to all individuals.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Human_Rights_in_International_Law\"><\/span>Human Rights in International Law<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), 1948:<\/strong><br \/>\nAdopted by the United Nations General Assembly, it contains over 30 articles covering civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.<\/li>\n<li><strong>International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), 1966:<\/strong><br \/>\nProtects the right to life, liberty, free speech, religion, assembly, fair trial, security, and privacy.<\/li>\n<li><strong>United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC):<\/strong><br \/>\nA global body responsible for monitoring human rights, conducting the Universal Periodic Review, and investigating human rights violations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These and various other international laws and organizations are dedicated to the protection of human rights across the world.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gender_Equality_and_Gender_Neutrality\"><\/span>Gender Equality and Gender Neutrality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In today\u2019s human rights discourse, two key terms often arise: <strong>Gender Equality<\/strong> and <strong>Gender Neutrality<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Gender Equality<\/strong> has played a significant role in promoting women\u2019s empowerment. Women are now increasingly present in fields traditionally dominated by men. For example, the right to vote, which was once denied to women, began to be granted in parts of the world like the USA and New Zealand in the 1890s. Today, women\u2019s suffrage is recognized in most parts of the world, enabling women to progress alongside men.<\/p>\n<p>On the other hand, <strong>Gender Neutrality<\/strong> seeks to ensure that laws and policies protect all genders equally. While Indian laws are often framed with neutrality in mind, their implementation tends to favor one gender over the other. True gender neutrality requires an unbiased legal system that ensures equal protection and fair treatment for all, regardless of gender.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Neglected_Mens_Legal_Rights\"><\/span>Neglected Men&#8217;s Legal Rights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>The areas where men\u2019s rights are often overlooked include:<\/b><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Family_Law_and_Custody_Disputes\"><\/span>Family Law and Custody Disputes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In family law, especially in divorce proceedings, judgments are frequently made in favor of women. While this is understandable\u2014as many women may lack the means to support themselves and require maintenance\u2014it is not always justified. Section 125 of the CrPC provides for:<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>\u201cOrder for maintenance of wives, children and parents.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>This section helps women who are mistreated by their husbands or in-laws to seek financial support. However, increasing numbers of cases suggest either the allegations are false or the financial demands are excessive\u2014even when women are financially independent. This undermines genuine cases and harms men\u2019s rights, forcing them to pay high maintenance even when they are financially struggling and without any relief.<\/p>\n<p>In custody battles, mothers are usually favored over fathers. Fathers must prove they are fit for child care to gain custody. Legally, under Section 6 of the Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956, the father is considered the \u2018natural guardian\u2019 unless declared unfit. However, in practice, mothers are more often granted custody\u2014even when fathers are capable and willing.<\/li>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Domestic_Violence_Laws\"><\/span>Domestic Violence Laws<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Domestic violence against women is a significant issue in India. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019\u201321) conducted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>31.8% of ever-married women (ages 15\u201349) experienced Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), which includes emotional, physical, or sexual abuse.<\/li>\n<li>29.3% of married women reported experiencing domestic or sexual violence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To address this, the Government introduced <strong>The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005<\/strong>, safeguarding rights guaranteed under Articles 14, 15, and 21. The judiciary has also taken active steps in addressing such violence.<\/p>\n<p>However, domestic violence against men is often overlooked. A study of 1,000 married men (ages 21\u201349) in rural Haryana found:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>52.4% experienced some form of spousal violence in their lifetime.<\/li>\n<li>51.6% emotional abuse<\/li>\n<li>6% physical abuse<\/li>\n<li>0.4% sexual abuse<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In the 12 months prior to the survey, 10.5% of men reported violence, including 2.5% who experienced physical abuse. NFHS-4 (2015\u201316) also found that 29 out of 1,000 married men experienced spousal physical violence, varying by state (e.g., Sikkim: 2\/1000, Tamil Nadu: 90\/1000).<\/p>\n<p>While women are statistically more affected, justice should be extended equally to all, regardless of gender.<\/li>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dowry_and_False_Accusations\"><\/span>Dowry and False Accusations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Dowry refers to money or property given by a bride\u2019s family to the groom at the time of marriage. While the practice itself is not illegal, violence or harassment over unsatisfactory dowry demands is a serious crime.<\/p>\n<p><b>According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data (2022): <\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>There were 6,589 dowry death cases (~18 per day).<\/li>\n<li>Top states: Uttar Pradesh (2,273), Bihar (1,032), and Madhya Pradesh (596).<\/li>\n<li>There were 1,22,149 cases of cruelty for dowry.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>To combat this, several laws exist in India, including: <\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Dowry Prohibition Act (1961)<\/li>\n<li>Sections 302B and 354 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)<\/li>\n<li>Section 117 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>While these laws focus on protecting women, there is growing concern about false dowry accusations made by brides and their families against men. Unfortunately, the NCRB does not maintain a separate category for violence or harassment of men in dowry cases, indicating bias.<\/p>\n<p>The NGO <strong>Save India Family Foundation (SIFF)<\/strong> reports:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>20% of cases filed under Section 498A IPC (now Section 85 of BNS) are false.<\/li>\n<li>Thousands of men have complained of being threatened with false dowry charges by their in-laws.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These issues highlight the urgent need for gender-neutral laws and equal treatment in legal protections.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mens_Rights_and_Mental_Health\"><\/span>Men\u2019s Rights and Mental Health<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In India, mental health is not taken as a major issue. According to the National Mental Health Survey (2015\u201316), 10\u201315% of adults are suffering from mental health disorders. Individuals suffering from mental issues are eventually treated as a topic of fun in India. In rural areas, 70\u201385% of individuals affected by mental health problems are not receiving care.<\/p>\n<p>If we talk about suicide rates, then in the year 2022, India recorded 171,000 suicides, which is a 4% increase from the previous year, 2021. The national rate is 12.4 per 100,000 \u2014 the highest ever. The leading cause of death among youth (aged 15\u201329) is suicide, responsible for 35% of all recorded suicides. If we further divide the data, medical students are particularly vulnerable. There is 28% of undergraduates and 15% of postgraduates diagnosed, with 16% (UG) and 31% (PG) reporting suicidal thoughts.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Human_Resource_and_Infrastructure\"><\/span>Human Resource and Infrastructure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Mental health is an issue where the majority of people don\u2019t focus. Due to ignorance, there is a high percentage of suicidal cases and an increase in diagnosed mental health issues. Psychiatrists, who are responsible for treating people suffering from mental health issues, number only 0.75 per 100,000 in India. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the recommendation is a minimum of 3 per 100,000. Other professions like clinical psychologists, social workers, and psychiatric nurses are even more underrepresented. To meet the demand, India needs tens of thousands.<\/p>\n<p>Infrastructure is in worse condition. India spends only 0.05% of GDP on mental healthcare, compared to high-income countries that spend 5% or more. There are only 1\u20131.5 beds per 100,000 for psychiatric patients. This highlights the poor state and shortfalls of the mental healthcare infrastructure.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mental_Health_and_Men_in_India\"><\/span>Mental Health and Men in India<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Now this is the condition of India in mental health. If we talk about the condition of men, then in India, they are less likely to seek help for mental health issues due to patriarchal expectations and stigma around vulnerability. The ideals of masculinity demand emotional suppression and success in finance, leading to mental distress.<\/p>\n<p>Men account for over 70% of suicide deaths in India. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), 2022, there were 1,18,979 suicide cases among men out of 1,64,033 total cases. The affected age group is 18\u201345 years. Major causes of suicides include unemployment, financial problems, family issues, and any sort of addiction.<\/p>\n<p>According to the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) 2015\u201316, nearly 1 in 10 individuals in India suffer from mental disorders. The percentage of men (13.9%) is slightly higher than women (13.1%) for substance use disorders. Disorders include depression, anxiety, alcohol use disorders, and bipolar affective disorders.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Barriers_to_Mental_Health_Access_for_Men\"><\/span>Barriers to Mental Health Access for Men<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>As mentioned before, Indian men are less likely to seek help for mental issues. They are less likely to consult therapists or psychiatrists. They prefer self-reliance, and there is fear of judgment. The lack of awareness also plays a huge role. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there should be at least 3 psychiatrists per 100,000 people, but in India, there are only 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000 people.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stress_Factors\"><\/span>Stress Factors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In Indian men, the mental stress is mainly due to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Unemployment:<\/strong> The main or primary source of earning in Indian households is men. If men fail to find a job or remain unemployed for a long time, there can be economic failure in the household, impacting their self-worth.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Marital and family issues:<\/strong> Preference to women leads to the violation of men\u2019s rights. There are significant increases in fake cases like child custody and domestic violence accusations, which indirectly impact men\u2019s mental well-being.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recent_Trends_and_Positive_Developments\"><\/span>Recent Trends and Positive Developments<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There is significant growth in the mental health field by the government and NGOs. Some of the important steps are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Tele-MANAS (2022):<\/strong> Government launched a mental health support helpline which is free and available 24&#215;7.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mental Health Apps:<\/strong> The use of platforms like <em>MindPeers<\/em>, <em>Wysa<\/em>, etc., helps individuals to heal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Role_of_NGOs\"><\/span>Role of NGOs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Several NGOs like <strong>The MAN Company<\/strong> and <strong>MAVA (Men Against Violence and Abuse)<\/strong> promote mental health awareness for men.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Legal_Recognition_Of_Male_Victims_In_Other_Areas\"><\/span>Legal Recognition Of Male Victims In Other Areas<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Other than Family laws and mental issues, there are other fields where men suffer but do not get any type of relief. Some of them are:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sexual_Harassment_at_Workplace\"><\/span>Sexual Harassment at Workplace<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), there are 400+ cases of sexual harassment at work each year since 2018. There were 419 cases in 2022, with top states being Himachal Pradesh (97), Kerala (83), Maharashtra (46), and Karnataka (43).<\/p>\n<p>If we come to male victims, then according to the 2016 report of the Indian National Bar Association, 22% of sexual harassment cases involved male victims. The Economic Times-Synovate (2022\/23) reports that 19% of men across seven metros reported workplace sexual misconduct. The Centre for Civil Society (2023) reports that approximately 18% of adult men report being forced or coerced into conjugal relations.<\/p>\n<p>If we talk about legal remedies, then there are many laws to protect women&#8217;s rights, but they do not cover men. For example, the POSH Act (Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace &#8211; Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal Act, 2013) applies only to women, excluding male victims.<\/p>\n<p>Section 73 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 (corresponding to Section 354A of the Indian Penal Code or IPC), focuses only on female victims.<\/p>\n<p><b>Other sections of BNS such as: <\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Section 74 \u2013 Assault or Use of Criminal Force to Women<\/li>\n<li>Section 75 \u2013 Voyeurism<\/li>\n<li>Section 76 \u2013 Stalking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>focus only on women or female victims, excluding male victims.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rape_and_Sexual_Violence\"><\/span>Rape and Sexual Violence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>One of the major issues in India forces us to question where civilization is heading. Is there a lack of education or moral education? That issue is rape and sexual violence. According to the NCRB (2022 report), 31,982 rape cases were filed. Since 2018, the figures have hovered around 31,000. There is no age bar \u2014 from a child of 4 months to an 80-year-old citizen, all have been victims.<\/p>\n<p>These figures represent registered cases only; many more remain unregistered due to fear of social rejection, coercion, or shame. The conviction rate is only 27%-28% for 2018\u20132022. Even custody is not safe \u2014 from 2017\u20132022, 275 custodial rape cases were registered.<\/p>\n<p>In terms of steps taken, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 (Nirbhaya Act) introduced stricter punishment post-2012 for crimes including rape, stalking, and workplace harassment. Section 375 of IPC (now Section 63 of BNS) defines rape as an act committed by a man against a woman without her consent. Sections 64\u201366 of BNS provide for punishment for rape.<\/p>\n<p>Children\u2019s rights (below 18 years) are protected under the POSCO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act, 2012. However, there are no specific rights for male victims. Males are generally considered as predators, not victims.<\/p>\n<p>The National Commission for Women (NCW) study in 2022 noted that 1.4% of Indian men reported experiencing sexual harassment. Around 3,000 cases were filed, up from 2,500 in 2021.<\/p>\n<p>Compared to other countries, India lacks gender-neutral laws. For example:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>USA:<\/strong> FBI\u2019s revised 2012 definition of rape recognizes both male and female victims.<\/li>\n<li><strong>United Kingdom:<\/strong> Sexual Offenses Act, 2003 recognizes male victims.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Other countries:<\/strong> Canada, South Africa, Australia, and International Laws all have gender-neutral provisions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Biases_Against_Men\"><\/span>Biases Against Men<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b>As we have seen, there is bias against men in law. A closer look reveals:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Dowry Harassment (Section 80 of BNS):<\/strong> Penalizes cruelty by husband or relatives toward a woman.<br \/>\n<em>Bias:<\/em> Whole family may be arrested without proper investigation. No parallel protection for men from false accusations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Domestic Violence Act, 2005:<\/strong> Meant to protect women from domestic abuse.<br \/>\n<em>Bias:<\/em> Men are excluded as victims; no complaints can be filed. NCRB (2014) reports men also suffer abuse but there is no statutory recognition.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Maintenance and Alimony:<\/strong> Supports wives (and children\/parents) financially.<br \/>\n<em>Bias:<\/em> Even well-qualified or voluntarily unemployed women can claim maintenance. Husbands are presumed to be sole providers.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Child Custody Laws:<\/strong> While the father is the natural guardian, custody generally goes to the mother.<br \/>\n<em>Bias:<\/em> Fathers are reduced to mere visiting parents.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sexual Harassment Laws:<\/strong> POSH Act (2013) and Section 73 of BNS protect only women.<br \/>\n<em>Bias:<\/em> No legal remedy exists for male victims.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rape and Sexual Assault:<\/strong> Section 63 of BNS defines the crime as being committed by a man against a woman.<br \/>\n<em>Bias:<\/em> No acknowledgment of male victims or female perpetrators.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Compared to gender-neutral laws in countries like the USA, UK, and Australia, Indian laws still reflect gender-specific definitions. This contributes to a rise in false cases. Judges have acknowledged misuse of laws.<\/p>\n<p>Even in the criminal justice system, bias persists. Police and courts often presume guilt when a female complainant is involved. There is a lack of legal protection for men who are falsely accused. Due to fear of social stigma, ridicule, or limited legal avenues, men rarely file complaints.<\/p>\n<p>There are national and state women\u2019s commissions and government bodies to protect women\u2019s rights. However, there is no such statutory authority for men. There is no official data collection, policy suggestion, or advocacy for crimes against men. Men have no representation or systematic recognition of their rights.<\/p>\n<section>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Policy_and_Advocacy_Movements\"><\/span>Policy and Advocacy Movements<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Despite bias in the judiciary, many NGOs and organizations raise their voices for the rights of men. <strong>Save Indian Family Association (SIFF)<\/strong>, a leading NGO, advocates against the misuse of dowry and domestic violence laws. They also provide legal aid, counseling, and public awareness.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Men Welfare Trust (MWT)<\/strong> engages in litigation, media campaigns, and mental health initiatives for men.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Hridaya (Heart for Men)<\/strong> offers support and suicide prevention services for distressed men.<\/p>\n<p><strong>All India Men\u2019s Welfare Association (AIMWA)<\/strong> focuses on policy-level advocacy and research on issues impacting men.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Men\u2019s Rights Advocates<\/strong> demand policy reforms. Like in other countries, India should also adopt gender-neutral laws. This includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Amending the <em>Domestic Violence Act, 2005<\/em> and sexual harassment laws to be gender-neutral, or creating parallel laws for male victims.<\/li>\n<li>Establishing a statutory commission for men\u2019s issues, similar to the National Commission for Women (NCW).<\/li>\n<li>Enforcing strict punishment for filing false cases, especially in serious crimes such as rape and dowry.<\/li>\n<li>Promoting shared custody of children if both parents are capable.<\/li>\n<li>Providing helpline numbers for mental health and suicide prevention targeted at men.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Although there is judicial bias, in some instances the judiciary has acknowledged men\u2019s issues. For example, in <strong>Sushil Kumar Sharma v. Union of India (2005)<\/strong>, the misuse of anti-dowry laws was recognized as &#8220;legal terrorism.&#8221;<br \/>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_to_Mens_Rights_Advocacy\"><\/span>Challenges to Men\u2019s Rights Advocacy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Despite numerous cases where males are victims, several issues continue to hinder men\u2019s rights advocacy:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Social Stigma:<\/strong> Men are often unwilling to speak about their problems due to the societal image of masculinity.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Political Issues:<\/strong> Women\u2019s voting blocs and feminist narratives often influence policy-making. There is a perception that the men\u2019s rights movement might undermine women\u2019s empowerment, though the actual goal is to expand human rights for all.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Media:<\/strong> The media tends to focus primarily on women&#8217;s issues, rarely covering men\u2019s perspectives or cases.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Support:<\/strong> Most men\u2019s rights groups are grassroots movements with minimal government or financial support.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recommendations\"><\/span>Recommendations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Some of the key recommendations include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Gender-Neutral Laws:<\/strong> Like in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, India should formulate or amend criminal and civil laws to protect all genders equally.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Creation of a National Commission for Men:<\/strong> Similar to the National Commission for Women, an institution should be established to address men\u2019s issues and protect their rights.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Data Collection and Research:<\/strong> The government should publish gender-disaggregated crime and suicide data, including male victims.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Inclusive Policy-Making:<\/strong> Men\u2019s rights activists should be represented in policymaking bodies and law commissions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Educate Law Enforcement:<\/strong> Police and the judiciary should be sensitized to treat men\u2019s complaints with equal seriousness.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Conclusion<\/b><br \/>\nMen\u2019s rights advocacy in India is not about neglecting women\u2019s issue but it is to bring the idea of true gender equality in country. If we compare to issues faced by men to women than it is true that women are more faced but that does not neglect the truth that man also suffer. There is need to recognize that men too can be victims and need protection under law. As time is passing, society is evolving; there is need for legal landscape to formulate policy, amend the existing policies.<\/p>\n<p>Judiciary and institution should acknowledge issues faced by men and work for it. Society should understand that men can be victim and instead of making fun of victim, support him and raise voice against crimes happen to any gender either male or female. Justice should serve victim irrespective of their genders and criminals should get punished irrespective of their gender.<\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction Human rights, as protected under national and international frameworks, aim to safeguard the dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of gender, caste, or race. In the Indian context, the policy and legal system have primarily focused on women&#8217;s empowerment due to the historical injustices and structural discrimination women have faced. While this is<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":133,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_topic_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_reply_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"two_page_speed":[],"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[16],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-5681","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","6":"category-human-rights"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5681","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/133"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5681"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5681\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5681"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5681"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5681"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}