Men Helpline while advocating the true equality, urges for urgent reforms to ensure fairness and justice for everyone, regardless of gender.
As the world observes International Men’s Day (IMD) on November 19, Men Helpline is calling attention to the persistent legal challenges that disproportionately impact men. From biased family laws to unchecked false accusations,
Equality Under the Constitution: A Reality or a Distant Goal?
India’s Article 14 guarantees equality before the law, yet systemic gaps result in legal processes that often overlook the plight of men. Men Helpline, a platform dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by men, underscores how biases within the legal system lead to social, emotional, and financial crises for countless individuals. This Men’s Day, their focus is clear: demand reforms that promote justice without prejudice.
The Hidden Impact of Legal Inequality
Men encounter significant obstacles in areas such as “False Allegations”, “Child Custody Battles”, “Mental Health Crisis” that go unnoticed.
Men falsely accused of crimes like domestic violence, dowry harassment, or sexual misconduct often face a presumption of being guilty. The absence of preliminary investigations in many cases leaves innocent men fighting a costly and emotionally draining legal battle.
Legal entanglements compounded by societal stigma often isolate men. The prolonged stress of legal proceedings has led many to experience anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.
IMD 2024 Theme: “Justice for All – Breaking Legal Bias”
This year’s theme emphasizes “Justice for all” by creating an unbiased legal framework that treats all citizens equally. Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, the founder of International Men’s Day, stated, “Equality can only be achieved when we recognize and rectify biases that affect anyone, irrespective of their gender.”
Men Helpline’s Call for Action
Kumar S. Ratan, activist and founder of Men Helpline, highlights: “it’s important to prevent the misuse of laws that harm innocent people. Legal bias, particularly in family law and accusations without evidence, causes deep harm to men and destabilizes families. Reforms are essential to restore balance.”
Men Helpline proposes actionable steps to address these concerns:
Investigation and Evidence: Before arrests in cases of harassment or violence, thorough preliminary investigations with the adequate proof of crime should be a legal requirement.
Joint Parenting Models: Child custody decisions must prioritize the child’s welfare, involving both parents equally.
Mental Health Support: Accessible counseling and legal aid tailored for men should be integrated into the justice system.
Punitive Measures for False Allegations: Equal punishment for proven false cases is crucial to maintaining the credibility of justice.
Restoration of Reputation: For acquitted individuals, mechanisms should exist to repair their tarnished image and compensate for the hardships faced.
Promoting a Positive Male Role Model of Masculinity
Beyond legal reforms, Men Helpline advocates for celebrating the contributions of men who inspire societal growth by promoting “Positive male Role Models”. Events like the Purushartha Mahotsav serve as platforms to honor men who exhibit courage, integrity, and compassion.
Join the Movement for Legal Equity
This Men’s Day, let us focus on building a society where fairness and justice prevail. Men Helpline invites everyone to be part of the movement—because justice is not just about punishment; it’s about protection, restoration, and equality for all.
