The Supreme Court of India has declined to hear a demand for the establishment of a National Men’s Commission, sparking a debate on whether men are treated as second-class citizens in India. The court rejected the demand and criticized the petitioner for presenting a one-sided view of the situation. However, the court failed to address the underlying question of why such a petition was necessary.
The petitioner had highlighted the issue of suicides committed by men due to domestic disputes, but this data was not taken into consideration. The court also overlooked previous cases where it had acknowledged that laws meant to protect women were sometimes misused against men and female members of their families. The lack of attention given to this important petition is in stark contrast to other matters that have been heard by the court, such as LGBTQ rights and same-sex marriage, which have received proper hearings.
The issue of a Uniform Civil Code, advocated by the Honorable Prime Minister, adds another layer to the discussion. If there are different laws for husbands and wives within the same family, how can a household function harmoniously? The problem has been acknowledged, but the question remains: when will it be resolved?
Statistics indicate that men are also victims of domestic violence, yet these cases rarely enter public discourse. The legal framework for protecting men is unclear, and a National Men’s Commission could help address these overlooked issues. Unfortunately, the petition has been withdrawn, leaving these injustices unresolved and unaddressed.
Even in cases of death, the media and public attention surrounding the murder of men differ greatly from that of women. The media often sensationalizes crimes against women, while crimes against men are reported as mere news without further discussion. While no one can justify any form of murder, it is disheartening to see gender discrimination play a role in the public’s reaction. Men who fall victim to domestic violence or commit suicide due to family issues do not receive the attention or support they deserve, even from the courts.
A misconception pervades public discourse, painting men as oppressors and women as victims. The petition called for research on the suicides of married men who are victims of domestic violence or facing other family and marriage-related problems. The aim was to highlight the need for a National Men’s Commission and to draft a necessary report for its constitution. Unfortunately, this crucial demand was not given due consideration, further marginalizing men and denying them the right to discuss their own suffering.
In conclusion, it is concerning that men’s issues and challenges are often disregarded in India. There is a pressing need for a National Men’s Commission to address the unique problems faced by men and bring them into the larger societal discussion. The rejection of this demand by the Supreme Court raises questions about the equality and fairness of the legal system. It is crucial to acknowledge and address the hardships faced by men to ensure a more balanced and just society for all.
