When we speak of rights and equality, the focus often gravitates towards women and marginalized groups. This is vital, but it has also led to an under-discussion of men’s rights—not as a counter to women’s empowerment, but as a missing piece in the broader pursuit of gender justice.
The Constitutional Lens
India’s Constitution enshrines equality for all citizens, regardless of gender:
- Article 14 – Equality before law and equal protection of laws.
- Article 15(1) – Prohibits discrimination on the grounds of sex, among others.
- Article 16 – Equality of opportunity in public employment.
Yet, over decades, legislative focus has tilted towards women’s protection due to historical social and economic disadvantages. While justified, this approach has left men with limited recourse in situations where they too face discrimination, harassment, or neglect.
Key Issues Faced by Men
1. Mental Health Stigma
- Social conditioning often pressures men to suppress emotions.
- The National Mental Health Survey (2016) highlights disproportionately high suicide rates among men aged 18–45.
- Few targeted counseling services or workplace wellness initiatives exist for men, worsening the crisis.
2. Workplace Discrimination
- Flexible work policies are frequently designed with women in mind, leaving men with fewer options.
- Diversity quotas, while addressing gender imbalance, sometimes create perceptions of unfairness against male candidates.
3. Domestic Violence & False Cases
- The Domestic Violence Act, 2005 is gender-specific, excluding male victims.
- Misuse of Section 498A IPC (dowry harassment) has been acknowledged by the Supreme Court, which warned against arbitrary arrests.
4. Parental Rights & Custody
- Custody disputes overwhelmingly favor mothers, even where fathers are capable caregivers.
- India lacks shared parenting laws, unlike many Western countries.
5. Sexual Harassment Laws
- The POSH Act, 2013 protects women but does not extend to male victims.
- Men subjected to workplace harassment must depend on patchwork remedies, such as internal policies or limited IPC provisions.
Global Perspective
- USA & UK: Gender-neutral laws on domestic violence and harassment.
- Canada: Shared parenting is encouraged as the norm.
- Australia: Family violence protections cover both men and women.
India, however, still largely frames protections as women-exclusive, sidelining men in comparable situations.
| “Men’s rights are not the opposite of women’s rights—they are a vital part of gender justice.” |
The Road Ahead: Legal & Social Reforms
- Gender-Neutral Laws – Domestic violence, sexual harassment, and custody frameworks must protect all genders.
- Men’s Commission – Establish a statutory body to address men’s grievances, similar to the National Commission for Women.
- Mental Health Programs – Launch awareness campaigns and workplace initiatives focusing on men’s psychological well-being.
- Safeguards Against False Cases – Introduce stronger checks while preserving protections for genuine victims.
- Parental Equality – Recognize shared parenting and joint custody to strengthen family balance.
Conclusion
The call for men’s rights is not about diminishing women’s rights—it is about completing the vision of equality. True gender justice must be inclusive, ensuring that men too are recognized as potential victims, caregivers, and equal participants in society.
Only by addressing these gaps can India fulfill its constitutional promise: justice, equality, and dignity for all.