MANSI BHAMBRI | DEHRADUN
The demand for the establishment of a men’s commission to address the numerous false accusations against men has started gathering momentum in Uttarakhand. There have been several instances where men have also experienced eve teasing, harassment and in some cases, the alleged misuse of laws meant to protect women’s rights, which has caused hardships and extreme suffering to men apart from denting their reputation.
A recent incident in Bengaluru in which 34-year-old Atul Subhash committed suicide after what he claimed to be years of emotional distress stemming from marital issues, numerous legal cases filed against him and his family, and harassment by his wife. In light of these circumstances, many individuals have urged the relevant authorities to conduct thorough investigations into such cases before making any decisions or enabling women to misuse their rights.
A local resident Sachin (name changed) stated that men are often held accountable in domestic violence and related cases while women are perceived as innocent. He recounted his own experience of enduring mental harassment from his wife over a five-year period. He added that shortly after their marriage, his wife asked him to transfer ownership of his property to her name and threatened to sue him and his family for dowry if he did not comply. He emphasised that she followed through with her threats, which led him to engage in a prolonged legal battle. In this context, he highlighted the significance of a men’s commission as a platform for men to voice their issues. Further, he urged the legal system to adopt a balanced approach and not show leniency towards women in such cases.
Former president of the Dehradun bar association Manmohan Kandwal said that he has observed numerous instances in Uttarakhand where men have become targets of allegations from their wives or from women in live-in relationships. He noted that many of these cases are unfounded and that some women may exploit their rights to tarnish the reputation of men to their own advantage. To address this situation, he emphasised the necessity of conducting thorough investigations in such cases. Additionally, he suggested that judges should approach these matters with sensitivity. He further proposed that authorities consider the establishment of a men’s commission, which would provide a platform for men to voice their issues regarding incidents they have endured.
“The commission has observed a few instances where women have made false allegations against men. Consequently, it is apparent that over time, some women have begun to misuse their rights. As a result, not only are the men and their families affected, but some genuinely affected women also suffer, as trust in them diminishes,” said chairwoman of the Uttarakhand State Commission for Women (USCW) Kusum Kandwal.
She further emphasised that the establishment of a men’s commission is ot enough, adding that all authorities handling such cases must conduct thorough investigations. Additionally, she noted that the USCW has now initiated a process for men to submit applications regarding any incidents they have experienced.
