The Hidden Epidemic: Sexual Harassment of Men in India
Men can take care of themselves. This common belief makes it hard to imagine that men can also be victims of sexual harassment. However, sexual harassment of men is a serious issue in India, involving economic, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse that harms their psychological and physical health.
Societal Perception and Legal Gaps
In a traditionally male-dominated society like India, people find it difficult to believe that men can be victims of sexual harassment. This disbelief is compounded by the lack of data and statistics on this issue. The Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, which aims to protect women at the workplace, does not extend the same protections to men.
Challenges Faced by Male Victims
The Indian Penal Code of 1860, specifically Section 498A, and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act of 2005, focus solely on protecting women. There are no provisions in these laws to protect men from similar abuse, leading to the presumption that men are always the perpetrators and women are always the victims.
Underreported Cases and Societal Stigma
Many cases of sexual harassment against men go unreported due to societal stigma. Men are often seen as strong and unemotional, making it difficult for them to seek help. A survey conducted in rural Haryana found that one in ten men aged 18 and above had experienced domestic violence. Despite this, many men remain silent due to fear of shame and societal backlash.
Need for Legal Reform
There is a pressing need for gender-neutral laws in India. Article 14 of the Indian Constitution guarantees equal treatment, and Article 15 prohibits discrimination based on sex. However, the current legal framework does not adequately protect male victims of sexual harassment.
Examples and Statistics
A notable example is the 2004 film Aitraaz, where a male character faces false rape charges after refusing a woman’s advances. This scenario, though fictional, reflects a real issue where male victims are often disbelieved.
Research by the National Commission for Women in 2022 found that 1.4% of men in India had experienced sexual harassment. Another survey by the Centre for Civil Society in 2023 revealed that 18% of Indian men had been pressured into unwanted sexual activity.
Societal Change and Legal Action
To address the issue of sexual harassment of men, India needs to implement gender-neutral laws and ensure that all victims receive justice regardless of gender. This includes breaking societal prejudices, encouraging open dialogue, and enacting legislative reforms.
Conclusion
Sexual harassment of men is a significant but underreported issue in India. Despite the existence of laws against sexual harassment, these primarily protect women and provide little recourse for male victims. There is a critical need for gender-neutral legislation and greater societal awareness to create a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone.
By recognizing the issue and advocating for legal reforms, we can ensure justice for all victims and foster a society that values gender equality and human rights.
