The Unseen Victims - Domestic Violence Against Men
Author: LawSphereX
Category: General Law
Published:
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THE UNSEEN VICTIMS: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST
MEN
Akanksha Shrivastava, B.A.LL.B. (Hons.), Career College of Law, Affiliated to Barkatullah University Bhopal, M.P.
ABSTRACT
Domestic violence is often seen as an issue affecting women, leaving male victims largely invisible. This article explores the overlooked reality of domestic abuse against men, focusing on physical, emotional, financial, and sexual forms of violence that men can experience at home. Social stigma, traditional notions of masculinity, and fear of disbelief often prevent men from speaking out or seeking help, forcing many to suffer silently. Real-life cases, such as the Ajay suicide, the Blue Drum incident, and other extreme instances, reveal that men can face severe harm in domestic settings, including threats to life and mental well-being. Despite this, Indian laws, particularly the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, provide legal protection only for women, leaving men with limited remedies and support.
This gap highlights the urgent need for gender-neutral domestic violence laws, awareness campaigns, and dedicated support systems for men. The article also examines the psychological and social impact on male victims, including depression, anxiety, isolation, and in some cases, suicide. By emphasizing that domestic violence is not about gender but about human suffering, this study calls for reforms to ensure all victims, regardless of gender, are recognized, supported, and protected. Through a combination of legal analysis, case studies, and discussion of societal attitudes, the article aims to shed light on the “unseen victims” of domestic abuse, advocating for justice, protection, and awareness. Recognizing male victims is a crucial step toward a fairer and more inclusive approach to addressing domestic violence.
Keywords: Domestic violence, male victims, gender-neutral laws, legal gaps, societal stigma, mental health, unseen victims.
“He came home expecting peace but what awaits him was fear that would not cease. Domestic violence spares no gender yet the sufferings of men often go unmembered. Their invisible wounds, the ignored tears and the unheard cries of men is the silent menace that no one talks about.”
THE UNSEEN VICTIMS
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST MEN IN INDIA
INTRODUCTION:
For decades, domestic violence has been recognized as a deep-rooted social issue, often associated with women silently bearing physical, emotional, and psychological abuse at home. Stories of battered wives and mothers have filled newspapers, courtrooms, and social awareness campaigns, highlighting the struggles women face in patriarchal societies. Over time, laws like the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, and various awareness initiatives have sought to protect women also provide them with legal remedies. Thus, society has slowly learned to see, speak, and act against the suffering of women at home. People learned to recognize abuse, speak up, and offer help. Yet, while women’s suffering slowly gained visibility and recognition, men’s experiences remained largely hidden.
For a long time, male victims suffered in silence, overshadowed by stereotypes that men are strong and unaffected by violence. This invisible suffering is now beginning to come to light, challenging long-held assumptions. But what happens when the invisible becomes visible? When abuse touches men, a space once assumed safe, society is shocked. Cases like Ajay from Delhi, who tragically ended his life after prolonged abuse, the Blue Drum incident, and reports of violence even during honeymoons, reveal that men, too, can face physical, emotional, financial, and sexual abuse at the hands of family or partners; proving that domestic violence is not limited by age, gender or relationship duration. Since for years, society assumed men were strong, invulnerable, and unaffected by domestic violence, indeed they are strong but violence, harassment or abuse can happen to anyone.
These stories challenge that assumption, forcing a confrontation with uncomfortable truths. How many more silent victims go unnoticed? How many suffer in the shadows, silenced by
stigma, ridicule, and notions of masculinity that “REAL MEN DON’T CRY”? Legal protections focus almost entirely on women, leaving men with limited remedies despite the abuse they endure. Domestic violence is not a women-only problem; it is a human problem. Recognizing male victims alongside women, implementing gender-neutral laws, raising awareness, and creating support systems are essential steps to ensure that all victims, regardless of gender, can find protection, justice, and dignity in their homes. Only by confronting the unseen can society create safe spaces for everyone.
UNDERSTANDING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: LEGAL AND GLOBAL CONTEXT
Domestic violence represents one of the most entrenched social and legal challenges of modern society. It is a phenomenon that extends far beyond individual households, revealing the deeprooted inequalities, stereotypes, and power dynamics embedded within social structures. At its core, domestic violence is not merely about physical harm; it is about control, domination, and the systematic erosion of human dignity within intimate or familial spaces. Although it has historically been associated with women as victims, contemporary understanding recognizes that domestic violence transcends gender and can affect anyone: - men, women, children, and even the elderly. To truly comprehend the nature and scope of domestic violence, it is essential to analyze it within both global and Indian legal frameworks, examining how the law perceives, defines, and responds to this pervasive issue.
The evolution of these frameworks shows a gradual shift from considering domestic violence as a private family matter to acknowledging it as a public and human rights issue that warrants state intervention.
GLOBAL RECOGNITION AND DEFINITION
The international community’s first significant step toward formally recognizing domestic violence as a human rights concern came through the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women (1993). The Declaration defines violence against women as: “Any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion, or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or private life.”1 1 United Nations, Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, G.A. Res. 48/104, Art. 1, U.N. Doc. A/RES/48/104 (Dec. 20, 1993).
This definition is vital for several reasons. First, it marked a paradigm shift by acknowledging that violence within the household, once shielded under the veil of privacy, is a legitimate concern of international law. Second, it expanded the concept of violence beyond the physical realm to include psychological and emotional harm, recognizing the complex and often invisible trauma experienced by victims. Finally, by including the phrase “whether occurring in public or private life,” the UN explicitly emphasized that the home is not a zone exempt from legal scrutiny or moral responsibility. Although the Declaration primarily focuses on women, its underlying philosophy extends universally.
It condemns all acts of coercion, control, and abuse that occur in domestic or intimate relationships, thereby acknowledging that violence in private spaces violates fundamental human rights irrespective of the victim’s gender. The core message is clear: no home should be a site of fear, humiliation, or suffering. The UN’s framing also laid the foundation for the broader understanding of gender-based violence (GBV): violence that arises due to unequal power relations between genders. While women often experience the brunt of such inequalities, the global discourse recognizes that men and individuals of diverse gender identities can also suffer domestic abuse, though their experiences often remain invisible due to social taboos and lack of recognition.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AS A HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE
Domestic violence fundamentally violates the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which guarantees every person the right to life, liberty, and security of person (Article 3) and the right to be free from torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment (Article 5). 2 These provisions underscore that domestic violence is not a private dispute, it is a direct violation of human rights and human dignity. By framing domestic violence as a human rights issue, international law compels states to intervene, protect, and prevent such violations within domestic spaces. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)3, adopted in 1979, further reinforced this duty by urging state parties to take legislative and administrative measures to eliminate 2 Universal Declaration of Human Rights Arts. 3, 5, G. A. Res.
217 (III), U. N. Doc. A/810 (Dec. 10, 1948). 3 Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women Arts. 1–3, Dec. 18, 1979, 1249 U. N. T. S. 13.
discrimination and violence against women. However, it is equally important to interpret these human rights instruments in an inclusive manner. Violence, coercion, and abuse are fundamentally human problems, not gender-specific ones. Every individual, irrespective of gender, has the right to live free from fear and violence. When domestic violence laws or policies restrict their scope to one gender, they risk overlooking the broader principle of equality before the law, a cornerstone of both international and constitutional justice. Therefore, addressing domestic violence from a human rights perspective requires a holistic understanding that the harm inflicted, whether physical, emotional, or psychological, erodes the universal values of freedom, security, and personal integrity.
The protection against such abuse must extend to all persons, not merely those who fit a legislatively defined category of victimhood.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN THE INDIAN CONTEXT
In India, domestic violence has been a long-standing and pervasive issue rooted in social traditions, gender hierarchies, and cultural conditioning. Historically, Indian society has often viewed marriage and family as private institutions, resistant to external scrutiny. This notion of domestic matters being “internal” led to the normalization of abuse within homes, particularly against women, who were traditionally expected to tolerate such behavior in the name of familial harmony. Recognizing the need for state intervention, the Indian Parliament enacted the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005, a landmark legislation that sought to provide civil remedies and protection to women facing abuse.
4 The PWDVA broadened the concept of domestic violence beyond physical assault to include verbal, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse, thereby acknowledging that violence can manifest in subtle and non-physical forms as well. 4 Under Section 3 of the PWDVA, domestic violence is defined as:4 “Any act, omission or commission or conduct of the respondent that harms or injures or 4 The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, No. 43 of 2005, Acts of Parliament, 2005 (India).
endangers the health, safety, life, limb or well-being, whether mental or physical, of the aggrieved person or tends to do so. ” This definition marks a significant advancement because it recognizes mental and emotional cruelty as legitimate forms of domestic violence, moving away from a narrow interpretation focused solely on bodily harm. The Act also empowers courts to grant protection orders, residence orders, and maintenance to victims, ensuring immediate relief. However, despite this progressive scope, the law is gender-specific in its application. The definition of “aggrieved person” under Section 2(a) refers exclusively to a woman who is, or has been, in a domestic relationship with the respondent. As a result, the statute excludes men, transgender persons, or elderly individuals facing similar forms of abuse within domestic settings from its protective umbrella.
This limitation has led to debates among scholars, activists, and legal practitioners regarding the gender exclusivity of the Act. While the PWDVA was enacted to address the historical marginalization of women and the prevalence of gender-based violence, its one-sided nature has inadvertently contributed to the perception that domestic violence is exclusively a “women’s issue,” not a human rights concern applicable to all victims of abuse. The Gender Bias in Legal Protection The exclusion of men and non-binary individuals from the protection of the PWDVA has created a legal vacuum for those who experience domestic abuse but do not fall within the statutory definition of “aggrieved person.
” Instances of male victims being subjected to verbal humiliation, psychological manipulation, or physical assault within relationships often go unrecognized or dismissed due to prevailing stereotypes about masculinity. Societal expectations that men must be emotionally resilient or dominant discourage them from reporting abuse, leading to silent suffering and social invisibility. Moreover, the absence of legal recourse reinforces a discriminatory narrative, that men cannot be victims of domestic violence, and that women cannot be perpetrators. This not only undermines the principle of equality before the law under Article 14 of the Indian Constitution5 but also perpetuates an
5 Ind. Const. art. 14 and 15
incomplete understanding of domestic violence itself. Critics argue that laws such as the PWDVA, though well-intentioned, reflect a protective paternalism that assumes only women require state protection. While the historical context justifies gender-specific safeguards, evolving social realities demand a more inclusive, genderneutral framework that recognizes all victims equally. The current legal imbalance also risks misuse, where false or exaggerated allegations may arise in domestic disputes, further polarizing gender relations. Nevertheless, the objective should not be to discredit the PWDVA, which remains vital for women’s safety, but to expand its protective spirit to all who suffer violence, regardless of gender.
FORMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE FACED BY MEN:
Domestic violence against men is a hidden crisis masked by gender stereotypes and societal denial. Whether it’s physical harm, emotional manipulation, financial control, or sexual coercion, male victims often face double victimization; first by their partners, and then by a system that refuses to believe them. Several forms of abuses men experiences are as follows:
PHYSICAL ABUSE
The archetype of the male protector is deeply ingrained in our social fabric, a figure of strength and invulnerability. Yet, hidden behind this formidable facade lies a harsh and often unacknowledged truth: a significant number of men silently endure the trauma of physical abuse. These are wounds that, while they may eventually heal on the body, leave profound and lasting scars on the psyche. Physical violence, defined by the deliberate use of force to cause pain, injury, or disability, manifests through hitting, slapping, punching, kicking, and even the use of objects or weapons. When the victim is a man, this reality collides violently with the pervasive stereotype that men are too strong, both physically and emotionally, to be victimized, leading to their suffering being systematically ignored, dismissed, or even mocked.
The societal assumption that men, by virtue of their perceived physical strength, cannot be victims creates a unique and paralyzing form of isolation for those who are. This misconception forces many abused men into a prison of silence, where the fear of societal ridicule and not being believed outweighs the pain of their injuries. The humiliation of admitting that one is being assaulted by
a female partner, and the subsequent questioning of one's masculinity, becomes a powerful tool of suppression. Consequently, the abuse continues behind closed doors, normalized and invisible. On platforms like Instagram, countless reels casually depict husbands being slapped, hit, or verbally berated by their wives, played for laughs and shared widely. This normalization is dangerous, as it desensitizes the public to a serious issue. In more severe, unreported incidents, men have faced assaults with household items such as having hot oil thrown on them, being stabbed with scissors during arguments, or being beaten with blunt objects. The physical harm is compounded by a legal and institutional framework that often leaves them with nowhere to turn.
Laws such as the now-replaced Section 498A of the IPC (largely replaced by Section 85 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita) and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, while crucial for protecting women, are inherently gender-specific. This creates a daunting barrier for male victims who contemplate seeking official help. 6 The fear of not being taken seriously by the police is pervasive. Many men report being met with disbelief, sarcasm, or outright dismissal when they attempt to file a complaint. The common retort, "How can a man be beaten by a woman? " reflects the deep-seated bias that prevents the legal system from recognizing male victimhood. This institutional skepticism, coupled with the social stigma, creates a perfect storm where men feel they have no recourse. They remain trapped, not only by their abuser but by a society that refuses to see their pain.
The issue of physical violence against men is a critical blind spot in our collective understanding of domestic abuse. It is a problem perpetuated by rigid gender stereotypes, trivialized by popular culture, and exacerbated by a legal system that struggles to be inclusive. To break this cycle of silence, a paradigm shift is urgently needed one that expands our definition of a victim to include any person, regardless of gender, and creates a safe, nonjudgmental environment where all survivors can speak out and seek justice. Recognizing the silent suffering of these men is not about diminishing the plight of female victims, but about affirming a fundamental truth: abuse is a human issue, not a gendered one.
EMOTIONAL / PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE
While physical violence leaves visible marks, emotional abuse causes deeper, enduring harm 6 Indian Penal Code § 498A (repealed); Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita § 85 (India 2023); Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, No. 43, §§ 2(a), 3 (India).
because it remains unseen and unacknowledged. It involves a sustained pattern of criticism, humiliation, intimidation, coercive control, and psychological manipulation often through threats of false accusations or isolation from family and friends. For men, this abuse is particularly devastating due to societal expectations that demand emotional strength and silence. Conditioned to “be strong” and suppress vulnerability, abused men internalize blame, experience anxiety and depression, and suffer a profound loss of self. Their distress often manifests as anger or withdrawal, further misunderstood by society. Compounding this harm is the near absence of support systems for male victims, as emotional abuse against men lacks social recognition and safe spaces for disclosure.
As a result, many men remain trapped in abusive relationships, silenced not only by their abusers but by a society unwilling to acknowledge their suffering.
FINANCIAL ABUSE
Society often assumes that financial control in relationships is exercised only by men, yet a silenced reality exists where men become victims of systematic financial abuse. This form of domestic exploitation operates through sustained coercion rather than isolated acts. It includes extortion through threats of false legal cases, forcing men to make payments to avoid arrest, social stigma, and prolonged litigation. Financial abuse also manifests as asset stripping, where property is transferred under emotional pressure, and economic sabotage, such as restricting access to personal earnings or coercing men to bear excessive financial responsibilities for their partner’s family. Hidden behind stereotypes, this abuse causes severe economic and psychological harm, trapping men in cycles of fear and compliance.
SEXUAL ABUSE
Sexual violence is commonly perceived as a crime with men as perpetrators and women as victims, obscuring the reality that men can also be survivors of sexual abuse. Such abuse often involves coercion, psychological manipulation, digital blackmail, and threats of false allegations rather than physical force alone. Fear of social stigma and deeply entrenched notions of masculinity discourage reporting, while Indian law under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita remains largely gender-specific, denying male victims’ adequate legal recognition and redress. As a result, these crimes are significantly under-reported and misunderstood. Addressing this gap requires inclusive awareness campaigns, gender-neutral sexual violence laws, and sensitive reporting and support mechanisms. Recognizing male survivors does not
undermine women’s rights; rather, it reinforces the universal principles of dignity, consent, and justice essential to a truly equitable society.
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE ABUSE
Beyond physical violence, domestic conflict can take the form of legal and administrative abuse, often termed “paperwork abuse,” where legal and bureaucratic systems are weaponized to harass, control, and financially exhaust men. This includes filing false or exaggerated police complaints, misusing protective laws such as Section 498A IPC (now Section 85 BNS), initiating multiple baseless legal proceedings to overwhelm the victim, and manipulating or concealing assets during litigation7. The objective is not legal justice but sustained harassment through the legal process itself. The consequences are severe: financial ruin due to prolonged legal costs, professional setbacks from repeated court appearances, social stigma, isolation, and serious psychological harm, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation.
This form of abuse transforms institutions of justice into tools of oppression, inflicting deep and enduring trauma on its victims.
THE HIDDEN NUMBERS – A STATISTICAL LOOK:
One of the least discussed social realities in India, not because it is rare, but because it is rarely reported, recorded, or researched. The absence of official data does not reflect the absence of abuse rather it reflects the silence surrounding it. Statistical evidence, though limited, reveals that a significant number of men experience various forms of domestic violence ranging from physical aggression to psychological manipulation, yet remain invisible within the formal justice system. Even in the few instances where men speak out, their voices are often dismissed as exaggerated, humorous, or retaliatory. The issue, therefore, lies not only in the prevalence of abuse but in the systemic invisibility of male victims.
This section presents available national and international data to illustrate the prevalence, reporting patterns, and consequences of domestic violence against men, thereby highlighting a dimension of gender-based violence that remains marginalized. Prevalence in India The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), conducted by the Ministry of Health and
7 Indian Penal Code § 498A (repealed); Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita § 85 (India) (2023).
Family Welfare (2019–21), provides one of the rare official insights into male victimization. It reveals that 4. 4% of married men in India have experienced some form of spousal violence. 8 Though this figure seems minimal compared to women’s reported rates, experts and advocacy groups stress that this number represents only the visible fraction of a much larger problem. Men in India face unique social constraints when it comes to reporting abuse. The cultural perception that “men cannot be victims” discourages them from seeking help or even acknowledging their suffering. Hence, the true magnitude of male victimization is likely much higher than what official statistics suggest. Independent organizations have attempted to fill this gap.
· The Save Indian Family Foundation (SIFF) in 2018 reported that 25% of Indian men had faced domestic abuse in some form; verbal, emotional, or physical, at least once in their lifetime. 9 · Similarly, a 2020 study by the Indian Social Science Journal (ISSJ) indicated that 32% of male respondents reported experiencing psychological abuse, such as persistent humiliation, controlling behavior, or threats of false legal cases. 10 Such findings reveal that emotional and psychological abuse constitute the most prevalent, yet least acknowledged, forms of domestic violence against men. Table 1: Prevalence of Domestic Violence Against Men in India
Save Indian Family Foundation
(SIFF)
NGO Survey 25% Verbal, emotional, physical Indian Social Science Journal
(ISSJ)
Academic Study 32% Psychological & emotional abuse The Shadow of Suicide Statistics When official domestic violence figures fall short, suicide data becomes a tragic proxy to understand male suffering. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data for 2022 records that over 90,000 men in India died by suicide due to “family problems” or “marriage-related issues. ”11 In contrast, about 45,000 women were reported in the same category. Although not all these suicides can be directly attributed to domestic abuse, the emotional and relational turmoil within families often plays a central role. Many men reportedly endure prolonged humiliation, false accusations, financial exploitation, or emotional neglect before succumbing to despair. The alarming male-to-female suicide ratio in this context suggests that domestic conflict affects men in severe and often fatal ways.
This data exposes a painful truth: men are victims not only of domestic violence but also of societal silence, which leaves them with no recognized outlets for redress or emotional support. Table 2: Suicide Cases Related to Family/Marriage Problems (NCRB 2022)
Global Comparisons Globally, the notion that domestic violence is a “women’s issue” has been increasingly challenged by empirical data. In the United Kingdom, the Office for National Statistics (2022) reported that 1 in 3 victims of domestic abuse are men. 12 The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that 1 in 4 men have faced some form of intimate partner violence, be it physical, sexual, or emotional. 13 The Canadian Department of Justice (2021) found that 29% of men had experienced partner violence at least once in their lifetime. 14 These statistics reveal a striking pattern: across nations, the rates of male victimization are substantial and comparable to women’s rates in several regions. The difference lies primarily in acknowledgment, legal recourse, and institutional support. In contrast, India’s official figure of 4.
4% (NFHS-5) appears disproportionately low, largely due to underreporting and the absence of gender-neutral laws. NGO-based data (25–32%) places India much closer to global averages, indicating that the disparity is statistical, not social. Table 3: Global Comparison of Male Victimization Country Source Year % of Male Comparative Victims Note United Office for 33%
1 in 3 victims
Kingdom National are male Statistics
Canada Department of 29% Consistent with Justice Western averages India
NFHS-5 / SIFF
2019–21 / 2018 4.4% (Official) / Large gap due to
25% (NGO)
underreporting Reporting and Awareness Gaps The invisibility of male victimization is primarily a result of underreporting. According to a
2021 survey by the Men’s Welfare Trust, only 1 in 10 male victims ever report their experiences
to the police, NGOs, or any formal authority. The reasons behind this silence are complex: - Fear of ridicule or disbelief (30%): Many men fear being mocked or dismissed if they report abuse. Legal bias and counter-allegations (25%): Laws such as Section 498A (IPC) and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, are gender-specific, offering no legal protection to male victims. Social stigma and shame (20%): Men are conditioned to view victimhood as weakness, conflicting with traditional ideas of masculinity. Lack of institutional support (15%): India lacks dedicated helplines, shelters, or counselling centers for abused men. Other reasons (10%): Including fear of losing child custody or public reputation. The combined effect of these factors leads to what can be termed as “statistical invisibility” where victims exist, but the system fails to record them.
Table 4: Reasons for Non-Reporting Among Male Victims (Men’s Welfare Trust, 2021)
Other reasons 10% Fear of losing reputation or child custody Psychological and Emotional Consequences Domestic violence does not only inflict physical injury; it leaves deep psychological scars. Men who experience domestic abuse often report feelings of humiliation, powerlessness, and chronic stress. A 2020 survey by the Save Family Foundation revealed: 60% of male victims suffered from depression or anxiety disorders. 45% reported suicidal ideation after prolonged abuse. 70% faced social isolation after sharing their experiences, as even friends and relatives were unsympathetic. 55% said they received no emotional or institutional support, reflecting a vacuum in the mental health response system. The mental health consequences of such neglect are severe, often leading to long-term emotional detachment, loss of productivity, or selfdestructive tendencies.
Unlike women, men have no parallel support infrastructure no crisis shelters, no gender-inclusive helplines, and minimal media visibility. Table 5: Psychological Impact on Male Victims of Domestic Violence (Save Family Foundation, 2020) Type of Psychological Effect Percentage (%) Observations Depression or anxiety 60% Prolonged emotional abuse causes chronic distress
2. Independent surveys reveal hidden prevalence: NGO studies consistently suggest
higher rates of male victimization than official data.
3. Suicide data is an indirect indicator of male suffering: Emotional distress rooted in
domestic conflict often ends tragically.
4. Global trends mirror India’s reality: Domestic violence against men is a universal issue,
transcending cultural and economic boundaries.
5. Policy silence perpetuates invisibility: The absence of gender-neutral domestic violence
laws and institutional support systems leaves men unprotected.
CASE STUDIES – WHEN THE UNSEEN SPEAKS:
While statistics measure the scale of domestic violence, case studies humanize it. They move beyond abstract numbers to expose the lived realities hidden behind closed doors, transforming data points into human stories marked by fear, disbelief, and silent suffering. Through these narratives, the concept of male victimhood becomes tangible, revealing how dignity is eroded not only by abuse but also by societal denial. Each case offers insight into the complex intersection of gender norms, social conditioning, and institutional neglect that shapes men’s experiences of domestic violence. Men who face abuse often exist within a cruel paradox: society expects them to be protectors, never victims. When they attempt to seek help, they are frequently met with scepticism, ridicule, or outright dismissal.
Physical injuries are doubted, emotional pain is trivialized, and silence is misinterpreted as strength. This response deepens isolation, reinforcing the belief that speaking out is both futile and humiliating. As a result, many men endure prolonged abuse in silence, internalizing blame and shame. Case studies from India and abroad challenge the myth that domestic violence is genderspecific. In India, accounts of men falsely accused under gender-biased laws or subjected to sustained emotional and physical abuse highlight a growing yet neglected crisis. Similar patterns emerge internationally, including in the United Kingdom and the United States, where male victims encounter stigma, disbelief, and limited legal recognition. These narratives reveal how systemic indifference within law enforcement, healthcare, and social services—
perpetuates suffering. Rigid ideals of masculinity emphasizing endurance and emotional restraint become barriers to justice and healing. Ultimately, these stories speak of courage. They challenge entrenched stereotypes and demand a more inclusive understanding of victimhood. When the unseen finally speaks, society is compelled to confront an essential truth: equality requires empathy for all, and silence only sustains the cycle of abuse.
ATUL’S SUICIDE CASE
The Tragedy of Atul Subhash: A Mirror to the Silent Crisis of Male Victimization The tragic case of Atul Subhash, a 34-year-old software engineer from Bengaluru, encapsulates the often-ignored crisis of male victimization in domestic relationships. Atul’s death was not the result of disease or accident but a slow, agonizing descent into despair a consequence of relentless emotional, financial, and legal pressure. 15 In a 24-page suicide note and an 84-minute video, Atul detailed what he described as systematic legal harassment, emotional exploitation, and institutional apathy. His allegations painted a chilling portrait of how protective laws, designed to shield women from cruelty, can sometimes be misused to inflict cruelty upon men.
According to his own account, Atul’s estranged wife and her family had allegedly filed a series of false cases, coupled with demands for exorbitant sums of money, effectively crippling him financially and psychologically. His access to his child, a right that often becomes collateral damage in marital disputes was denied, deepening his emotional devastation. What began as a marital conflict spiralled into a life-consuming legal and social battle, one that left him feeling cornered by a justice system he perceived as indifferent to his pain. He found himself not only fighting accusations but also societal disbelief, where the presumption of guilt was attached to his gender alone. Atul’s final act was not merely an expression of hopelessness; it was a desperate plea for recognition.
In meticulously documenting his ordeal, he turned his suffering into testimony a powerful indictment of systemic blind spots and societal double standards. His story exposed the paradox of gender justice in India: while laws like the Protection of Women from Domestic 15 See Bengaluru Techie Dies by Suicide, FIR Filed Against Wife for Abetment, Times of India (Dec. 10, 2024), https://timesofindia. indiatimes. com/city/bengaluru/he-died-by-suicide-as-his-wife-and-her-family-harassed-himsays-bengaluru-police-fir-filed-for-abetment/articleshow/116202846. cms
Violence Act (2005) and Section 498A of the IPC play an essential role in protecting women, their potential for misuse remains a grave concern. For men falsely accused, the consequences are often catastrophic legal fees, social ostracization, loss of employment, psychological trauma, and in extreme cases, as with Atul, suicide. The aftermath of Atul’s death ignited a nationwide conversation that had long been suppressed. Across social media and civil society platforms, discussions emerged around the need for gender-neutral laws and support systems for male victims of domestic abuse. His case became a rallying point for organizations advocating men’s rights, such as the Save Indian Family Foundation (SIFF), which highlighted how thousands of men face similar forms of silent suffering but lack institutional acknowledgment or redressal mechanisms.
Despite these growing voices, mainstream discourse and state machinery have remained hesitant to extend the definition of victimhood beyond the female experience. Psychologically, Atul’s case underscores the devastating effects of chronic emotional trauma combined with institutional helplessness. Men in such situations often refrain from seeking help due to fear of ridicule or emasculation. They internalize their suffering, conditioned by social expectations to appear strong, unemotional, and in control. This internalized pain festers, leading to severe anxiety, depression, and suicidal tendencies yet, their suffering remains invisible because society equates masculinity with resilience, not vulnerability. Legally, his death compels a reexamination of the principle of equality before law, enshrined under Article 14 of the Indian Constitution.
True equality demands that both men and women receive equal protection and consideration under the law. The call for gender neutrality is not an attempt to dilute women’s rights but to expand the scope of justice ensuring that all victims, regardless of gender, are heard, believed, and protected. In essence, the story of Atul Subhash is not merely a personal tragedy; it is a symbolic moment of awakening. It forces society to confront an uncomfortable truth, that the architecture of justice, built to dismantle patriarchy, can also inadvertently entrap the innocent if not applied with balance and empathy. His case urges a shift from gender-based justice to human-based justice, where empathy replaces assumption, and fairness transcends stereotype. Atul’s life and death remind us that victimhood has no gender, and compassion should have no bias.
To honour his memory is to acknowledge that justice cannot afford to be one-eyed. Until systems evolve to recognize the silent cries of men like Atul, the corridors of law will continue to echo with stories that end not in verdicts, but in silence.
THE “BLUE DRUM” MURDER CASE
A Chilling Testament of Betrayal and Concealment
In the spring of 2025, India awoke to a horrifying story that would come to be known nationwide as the “Blue Drum Murder. ” What began as a missing-person complaint in Meerut soon unfolded into a grotesque tale of deceit, cruelty, and a chilling attempt to erase a life quite literally in cement. 16 The victim, Saurabh Rajput, a 35-year-old merchant-navy officer, was a man who had once embodied success and stability. But behind the closed doors of his home, his marriage with Muskan Rastogi was crumbling under the weight of infidelity and emotional turmoil. What might have been an ordinary domestic dispute soon turned into one of the most macabre homicides in recent memory. According to the investigation, Muskan, along with her alleged lover Sahil Shukla, meticulously planned and executed Saurabh’s murder on 4 March 2025 in Meerut’s Brahmpuri area.
After drugging and killing him, they dismembered his body, stuffed it into a blue plastic drum, and poured cement over it to conceal the crime. The gruesome scene was discovered days later when the smell of decomposition and leaking fluids led neighbours to alert the police. What they found inside the drum was not just the remains of a man, but the horrifying evidence of premeditated human brutality. The details that surfaced during investigation painted a picture far darker than a simple “crime of passion. ” Forensic reports indicated that Saurabh’s blood had mixed with the cement, and parts of his skin had been stripped away, indicating extreme violence. Police later revealed that Sahil and Muskan had continued to live in the same house for several days after the murder, showing chilling composure even as the sealed drum lay metres away.
As public outrage grew, the Meerut Police filed a chargesheet exceeding 1,000 pages, citing deliberate murder, conspiracy, destruction of evidence, and financial motives. Investigators concluded that greed and illicit love were the driving forces, the accused allegedly sought to claim Saurabh’s assets and start a new life together, unburdened by his existence. The “Blue Drum” soon transcended its literal meaning to become a symbol of concealed 16 See Meerut ‘Blue Drum’ Murder: Accused Muskan Rastogi Gives Birth to Baby Girl, Times of India (Nov. 25, 2025), https://timesofindia. indiatimes. com/city/meerut/meerut-blue-drum-murder-accused-muskan-rastogigives-birth-to-baby-girl/articleshow/125553291. cms
violence, hidden beneath layers of cement, secrecy, and societal blindness. For many, this case was not just about a gruesome killing, but about how betrayal and emotional cruelty can take physical, horrifying forms. In the weeks that followed, a disturbing copycat case emerged in Rajasthan’s Alwar district, where another husband, Hansram Kashyap (also known as Suraj), was found murdered and sealed in a similar blue drum by his wife and her alleged lover. Investigators directly linked the second killing as being “inspired” by the Meerut case, a chilling reminder of how sensational crimes can echo across regions and minds alike. The psychological and social dimensions of the Blue Drum Murder force us to confront a darker aspect of domestic life where the home, meant to be a sanctuary, becomes a site of entrapment and death.
The victim, a husband, once assumed to be the stronger gendered figure, was instead overpowered, mutilated, and erased by those closest to him. It challenged the ingrained notion that men are always the aggressors in domestic settings. From a legal standpoint, the case underscored multiple failures: the lack of early-warning systems for domestic volatility, the absence of gender-neutral protections for men in abusive marriages, and the ease with which emotional conflicts can escalate into irreversible crimes. It also reflected on how society often ignores male distress until it surfaces as a corpse sealed in a drum. The Blue Drum Murder Case of 2025 stands today as a harrowing parable of love turned lethal, and a grim reminder that domestic violence wears many faces.
It urges lawmakers and citizens alike to see beyond gender stereotypes to recognise that betrayal, cruelty, and suffering are human, not male or female. Just as Atul Subhash’s suicide note cried for justice, Saurabh Rajput’s cemented silence speaks volumes not through words, but through the weight of a blue drum that contained both his body and the collective denial of a society that refuses to see when a man, too, is the victim.
THE HONEYMOON MURDER CASE
The Betrayal Behind the Vows In the quiet hills of Meghalaya, where newlyweds seek romance amid clouds and waterfalls, unfolded one of India’s most haunting stories of betrayal, the Honeymoon Murder Case of Raja Raghuvanshi, a 29-year-old software engineer from Indore. What was meant to be a journey of love and togetherness became a premeditated execution, meticulously planned by the person
he trusted most his wife. 17 On 11 May 2025, Raja married Sonam Raghuvanshi in a celebration that seemed like any other full of laughter, blessings, and dreams of a shared future. Days later, the couple set out on their honeymoon to Sohra (Cherrapunji), Meghalaya, known for its serene beauty and mist-laden valleys. But behind this scenic journey lay a sinister conspiracy. Investigations later revealed that Sonam, driven by personal motives and an alleged extramarital affair with a man named Raj Kushwaha, had plotted Raja’s murder even before the wedding took place. The couple was last seen together on 23 May 2025. A few days later, Raja was reported missing, and on 2 June, police recovered his decomposed body from a deep gorge near Wei Sawdong Falls, one of Meghalaya’s famous tourist spots. What initially appeared to be an accident soon turned into a chilling case of contract killing.
Evidence uncovered by the Meghalaya Police Special Investigation Team (SIT) revealed that Sonam and her lover had hired three men to execute the murder during the honeymoon. Call records, CCTV footage, and witness testimonies pieced together a trail of deceit from secret phone calls to financial transactions and the deliberate orchestration of Raja’s death. In September 2025, police filed a 790-page chargesheet, detailing how the crime was planned across states Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Meghalaya and how Sonam’s pretense of affection concealed a deadly plot. The charges included murder, conspiracy, destruction of evidence, and abetment, under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The revelations shocked the nation and dismantled the deeply ingrained narrative that men are always the perpetrators and women the victims in cases of domestic violence.
Raja’s death was not just a personal tragedy; it became a symbolic turning point in how society perceives male victimhood. It revealed the uncomfortable truth that even in marriage an institution idealized for love, security, and companionship. Men can be victims of manipulation, emotional deceit, and even physical harm. Raja’s blind trust in his wife, his willingness to believe in love, became the very weapon used against him. His family’s grief soon turned into a public demand for justice. They sought the death penalty for the accused, calling Raja’s murder not only a betrayal of a husband but a violation of human faith and 17 See Murder of Raja Raghuvanshi, Wikipedia (last visited Dec.
27, 2025) (detailing how 29-year-old Raja Raghuvanshi disappeared during his honeymoon in Meghalaya and was later found murdered, and how police allege his wife, Sonam Raghuvanshi, conspired with accomplices to hire killers to carry out the crime), https://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Murder_of_Raja_Raghuvanshi; see also In Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder Case, Sonam Raghuvanshi’s Bail Plea Rejected Again, NDTV (Dec. 21, 2025), https://www. ndtv. com/india-news/inmeghalaya-honeymoon-murder-case-sonam-raghuvanshis-bail-plea-rejected-again-9855654
decency. The father’s emotional statement to the media that his son’s life was taken “in the name of love” resonated across the nation, igniting conversations on the neglected narratives of male suffering in domestic spaces. This case, like that of Atul Subhash, forces society to confront the selective lens through which it views abuse and victimhood. The tragedy of Raja Raghuvanshi underscores that violence within relationships is not bound by gender. It compels us to question why male victims often remain invisible in the legal, psychological, and social frameworks meant to protect all individuals. The Honeymoon Murder Case is thus more than a story of crime, it is a mirror reflecting society’s denial, a brutal reminder that justice cannot be partial. For true equality to exist, compassion and protection must extend beyond gendered boundaries.
Raja’s life and the betrayal that ended it calls for a new conversation on empathy, fairness, and reform in how we define and address victimhood itself.
JOHNNY DEPP V. AMBER HEARD
A Man’s Fight to Be Believed
The case of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard is one of the most talked-about examples of how even powerful men can become victims of domestic violence and false accusations. Johnny Depp, a world-famous actor known for his roles in Pirates of the Caribbean and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, was married to Amber Heard, also an actress. 18What began as a love story soon turned into a painful and destructive relationship. After their separation, Amber publicly wrote an article claiming she was a victim of domestic abuse. Even though she did not mention Johnny’s name directly, everyone understood she was referring to him. Overnight, his reputation collapsed. He lost his movie contracts, brand deals, and respect in the eyes of the public. The media and many social groups painted him as an abuser without waiting for any proof.
For years, Johnny suffered silently, not only from the emotional trauma but also from being treated like a criminal for something he said he never did. When Johnny finally decided to speak up and take legal action, shocking facts came to light. In court, several recordings and messages were presented as evidence where Amber herself admitted to hitting Johnny and 18 See https://timesofindia. indiatimes. com/entertainment/english/hollywood/news/johnny-depp-winsdefamation-case-against-amber-heard-jurys-verdict
mocking him. She even laughed at the idea that no one would ever believe him if he said she was the abusive one. These moments showed how society’s bias can silence male victims. Even when a man is suffering, people often assume he must be the aggressor because of his gender. During the trial, Johnny shared his experiences of being emotionally and physically abused. He said he stayed quiet for years because he wanted to protect her and because he feared that if he spoke out, people would laugh or call him weak. His testimony revealed the deep pain of a man who had been unheard and disbelieved for far too long. In 2022, the court finally ruled in Johnny Depp’s favor. The judge found that Amber’s claims were false and had seriously damaged his life and career. She was ordered to pay him compensation for defamation.
The judgment became a turning point not just for Johnny, but for many men across the world who had silently faced similar pain. This case proved something very important that violence and manipulation are not about gender, they are about power and control. Johnny Depp’s story gave strength to many men who had been too afraid or ashamed to speak out. It reminded the world that men, too, can be victims, and that their voices deserve to be heard without judgment or ridicule. In the end, Johnny’s fight was not only for his name but also for truth and equality. His courage to face the world’s disbelief showed that justice must have no gender, and that every victim man or woman deserves the same respect, protection, and right to be heard. “When society chooses whom to believe, justice forgets whom to protect.
” Across these four stories from Atul Subhash’s silent legal battle that ended in tragedy, to the chilling brutality of the Blue Drum and Honeymoon cases, and the emotional turmoil of Johnny Depp’s fight for truth one painful truth echoes louder than words: victimhood has no gender. Whether within the walls of a courtroom or behind the closed doors of a home, these men faced disbelief, stigma, and injustice simply because society finds it difficult to accept that a man can be a victim too. Their experiences expose deep cracks in our understanding of domestic abuse cracks filled with bias, silence, and selective empathy. Laws made to protect must never become weapons to destroy, and justice must never be filtered through gender. These cases remind us that suffering, fear, and vulnerability are not bound by sex or status; they are human experiences.
To build a truly equal and humane society, we must have the courage to listen to every voice
that trembles with pain, even when it doesn’t fit our expectations. Only when every victim, man or woman is heard and protected, can justice truly prevail, and humanity begin to heal.
LEGAL FRAMEWORK AND CHALLENGES: INDIA AND THE GLOBAL
PERSPECTIVE
Domestic violence laws across the world were originally designed to protect individuals from intimate partner abuse and household cruelty. Historically, these laws emerged from the struggles of women who suffered under patriarchal systems, often in silence. While such gender-specific protection was essential in earlier decades, it has now created a major gap in the legal landscape the exclusion of male victims. In recent years, several countries have recognized that domestic violence is not confined to one gender, yet India continues to lag behind, still viewing men primarily as perpetrators rather than possible victims. In India, domestic violence is governed mainly by the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA).
The very title of the Act confines its protection to women, and Section 2(a) defines an “aggrieved person” exclusively as any woman who alleges being subjected to domestic violence by someone in a domestic relationship. This definition leaves no room for men, transgender individuals, or others who might face abuse within the family. While the Act provides essential rights such as protection orders, residence rights, compensation, and maintenance, these safeguards are gender-specific and cannot be invoked by a male victim. Similarly, provisions in the Indian Penal Code (IPC) such as Sections 498A (cruelty by husband or relatives), 304B (dowry death), and 509 (insult to the modesty of a woman) all operate under the presumption that only women can be victims and men the offenders.
19 This one-dimensional framework leaves no legal remedy for men who experience abuse, forcing them into silence or social ridicule when they try to seek help. Although the legislature has not yet addressed this gap, the judiciary has occasionally acknowledged the issue indirectly. In Rajesh Sharma v. State of Uttar Pradesh (2017), the Supreme Court recognized the misuse of Section 498A and directed that complaints under it 19 See Indian Penal Code, No. 45 of 1860, §§ 498A (cruelty by husband or relatives of husband), 304B (dowry death), 509 (word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman), India Code (criminal provisions premised on the assumption that women are the sole victims and men the offenders).
be examined carefully to prevent harassment of innocent husbands and relatives. 20 Similarly, in Samar Ghosh v. Jaya Ghosh (2007), the Court acknowledged that cruelty in marriage can be mental as well as physical, irrespective of gender. 21 However, despite these judicial observations, there has been no concrete legislative effort to introduce gender-neutral reforms in India’s domestic violence framework. In contrast, several nations have already evolved toward gender-neutral protection. The United Kingdom’s Domestic Abuse Act, 2021 defines abuse as any incident or pattern of controlling, coercive, threatening behavior, violence, or abuse between intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality. The United States, through amendments to the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), now extends protection to men and members of samesex relationships22.
Similarly, Australia’s Family Law Act, 1975, and the laws of Canada and New Zealand treat domestic violence as a human issue rather than a gendered one. 23These examples demonstrate a mature understanding that victimhood is defined by suffering, not by sex. They also reveal that protecting women and recognizing men are not mutually exclusive goals; rather, both are essential for a just and inclusive society. India’s failure to adopt similar reforms stems from multiple factors. Deeply ingrained stereotypes associate masculinity with strength and dominance, making it difficult for lawmakers to view men as potential victims. There is also a persistent fear that introducing gender-neutral provisions may dilute the hard-won rights of women. Moreover, the lack of official data on male victimization and the absence of political will keep this issue buried.
As a result, a man who faces cruelty, emotional abuse, or even physical assault at home has virtually no legal path for justice. There is an urgent need for India to move toward a gender-neutral domestic violence law that 20 Rajesh Sharma v. State of Uttar Pradesh, (2017) 8 S. C. C. 821, 834–36 (India) (acknowledging the growing misuse of § 498A of the Indian Penal Code and issuing directions to prevent the harassment and arrest of innocent husbands and their relatives). 21 Samar Ghosh v. Jaya Ghosh, (2007) 4 S. C. C. 511, 545–46 (India) (holding that “cruelty” under matrimonial law is not confined to physical violence and may include mental cruelty, the determination of which depends on the facts and circumstances of each case, irrespective of the gender of the spouse). 22 See Domestic Abuse Act 2021, c. 17, § 1 (U. K.
) (defining “domestic abuse” to include physical or sexual abuse, violent or threatening behaviour, controlling or coercive behaviour, economic abuse, and psychological, emotional, or other abuse between persons aged sixteen or over who are personally connected, irrespective of gender or sexual orientation). 23 See Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) pt VII, div 1, § 4AB (Austl. ) (defining “family violence” in gender-neutral terms to include violent, threatening, coercive, controlling, economic, and emotional behaviour, recognizing that any person in a family relationship may be a victim).
focuses on acts of abuse rather than the identity of the victim. Such reform should redefine the term “aggrieved person” to include any individual male, female, or transgender who suffers abuse in a domestic relationship. Dedicated helplines, shelters, and counseling services for men should be established, and national surveys like the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) should begin collecting gender-inclusive data. Law enforcement officials must also be trained to handle complaints sensitively, without bias or mockery. Ultimately, the true spirit of equality enshrined in Article 14 of the Indian Constitution demands that protection from violence be universal. Domestic violence is not a women’s issue or a men’s issue it is a human issue. Justice, compassion, and safety should not depend on gender but on the simple fact that no one deserves to suffer behind closed doors.
NEED FOR GENDER NEUTRAL LAWS AND POLICY REFORMS:
RECOMMENDATIONS AND WAY FORWARD:
Imagine a rule that says only people with blue shirts can get help if they are hurt, while everyone else is ignored. That wouldn't be fair, right? This is similar to a problem with our current laws on domestic violence (violence that happens at home, usually between family members). Right now, Indian laws are designed to protect only women from domestic violence. While it's absolutely true that a large number of victims are women, this doesn't mean that men or people from other genders can't be victims too. By leaving them out, the law is being unfair and going against our Constitution's promise of equality for every citizen. What Does "Gender-Neutral" Mean? Making laws "gender-neutral" doesn't mean we forget the struggles women face. It simply means extending the same protection and help to everyone. Think of it like an umbrella.
Right now, the umbrella only shelters women from the storm of abuse. Making it gender-neutral means making the umbrella bigger, so it can shelter any person who is suffering, regardless of whether they are a man, woman, or transgender. Our Constitution (the supreme rulebook of India) in Article 14 says that everyone is equal before the law. Article 15 says that no one can be discriminated against because of their sex. When a man is beaten by his wife or partner and the police refuse to help him because "men
can't be victims," it breaks this fundamental rule. 24 Recognizing men as victims of domestic violence marks a crucial step toward achieving true gender equality in India’s social and legal framework. While laws and awareness programs have made significant progress in addressing violence against women, the experiences of male victims continue to exist in silence and denial. A progressive society cannot afford selective empathy; justice and protection must extend beyond gender boundaries. Therefore, it becomes essential to outline a comprehensive set of reforms that bridge this existing legal and social gap. Legislative Reforms: Towards Gender-Neutral Protection The first and most urgent reform lies within the legislative framework itself.
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA), though progressive in protecting women, is inherently gender-specific and excludes men, transgender persons, and others from its ambit. Domestic violence, as a social reality, is not limited to one gender. Hence, either the existing law should be amended to be gender-neutral, or a new, separate legislation must be enacted perhaps titled the “Protection from Domestic Violence Act” which uses inclusive terms such as “person” or “spouse” instead of “woman” or “husband. ” Such a law should provide equal rights to seek protection orders, residence orders, monetary reliefs, and custody arrangements, regardless of gender. It must also ensure equal punishments for perpetrators, whether male or female.
Similarly, Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with cruelty by the husband or his relatives, should be restructured to include cruelty by either spouse, ensuring fairness and reducing misuse without compromising women’s safety. Further, family courts and domestic violence cells must be empowered and trained to handle gender-neutral cases with balanced consideration, not through pre-existing gender bias. Institutional and Administrative Measures Legal reform alone cannot transform reality; it requires institutional readiness and administrative support. The government should establish gender-neutral support systems that
24 See CONSTI. Art. 14 & 15
cater to all victims of domestic violence. Helplines and Crisis Centers: There should be 24×7 national and state-level helplines dedicated to male victims, with trained counsellors who handle cases sensitively. Shelter Homes and Rehabilitation Centers: Just as there are women’s shelters, safe spaces for men must also be established, especially for those facing financial abuse, false allegations, or homelessness after separation. Police Sensitization: Law enforcement agencies must receive specialized training to recognize that men can be victims too. Police officers should be instructed to register complaints from men without prejudice or mockery. Data Collection: The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) and National Family Health Survey (NFHS) must expand their data parameters to include statistics on male victims of domestic violence.
This data is crucial for shaping evidence-based policies and breaking myths about male invulnerability. Judicial Sensitization and Interpretative Reforms The judiciary plays a pivotal role in interpreting laws through a lens of constitutional equality. Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Constitution guarantee equality before law, prohibit gender-based discrimination, and protect the right to life and dignity for all citizens. These constitutional guarantees are the foundation for demanding gender-neutral justice in domestic violence cases. Judges and magistrates should undergo continuous training and workshops to recognize that victimhood is not bound by gender. They should interpret laws in light of changing social realities, ensuring that relief mechanisms under existing provisions even if gendered are extended to male or non-female victims wherever possible.
Courts should also encourage mediation and counselling in domestic violence cases to promote restorative justice, particularly when emotional or psychological abuse is involved. Awareness and Educational Reforms Domestic violence thrives in silence, and silence is sustained by stereotypes. Society often ridicules men who report abuse, labelling them as “weak” or “unmanly. ” To dismantle this
stigma, widespread awareness campaigns are essential. Public Campaigns: Government and NGOs should jointly launch media campaigns that convey that domestic violence is a human problem, not a gendered one. Campaigns must highlight real-life stories of male victims to normalize conversations and empathy. Educational Curriculum: Schools, colleges, and universities should introduce gendersensitivity education that focuses on mutual respect, emotional health, and equality in relationships. Media Sensitization: News outlets, social media influencers, and filmmakers must be encouraged to portray domestic violence in a balanced and inclusive manner, showcasing the suffering of both male and female victims without bias. Only through consistent visibility and dialogue can society learn to empathize beyond stereotypes.
Role of NGOs and Civil Society Civil society organizations have long been the backbone of gender justice movements, and their expansion into male victim advocacy is both natural and necessary. NGOs should establish support groups for men, offering free counselling, legal guidance, and temporary accommodation for those in distress. Collaborations between NGOs, academic institutions, and legal aid clinics can create research hubs that produce reports, policy briefs, and awareness workshops on domestic violence against men. Community-driven support models such as peer groups, online help forums, and survivor networks can provide emotional solidarity to victims who fear social judgment or legal neglect. Research, Monitoring, and Policy Evaluation For sustainable change, the government and research institutions must invest in data-driven policymaking.
Regular national-level surveys should be conducted to assess the prevalence, causes, and consequences of domestic violence across all genders.
Annual domestic violence audits can evaluate the performance of family courts, police, and protection officers to ensure inclusivity in their functioning. The Law Commission of India should prepare a comprehensive report recommending genderneutral domestic violence legislation, drawing from international best practices. Such continuous research and policy evaluation will ensure that reforms remain relevant, fair, and effective in changing societal attitudes. Building a Culture of Equality and Empathy Ultimately, laws and institutions can only do so much; social transformation begins at home. Families, educators, and community leaders must encourage open dialogue about abuse, mental health, and emotional well-being. Recognizing a man’s pain does not negate a woman’s suffering it strengthens the very foundation of equality and compassion that every society must uphold.
Creating gender-neutral domestic violence laws is not a rejection of women’s rights but a reinforcement of human rights. It represents a movement from selective justice to universal justice, from silence to recognition, and from fear to dignity.
CONCLUSION:
For far too long, the idea of domestic violence has been confined within the narrow walls of gender. Society has been conditioned to see victims through a selective lens where tears are believed only when they fall from a woman’s eyes, and silence is mistaken for strength when it belongs to a man. Yet behind closed doors, many men endure the same cycle of fear, humiliation, and helplessness, unable to speak out because masculinity forbids weakness. The stories explored in this booklet from Ajay’s tragic end to the haunting Blue Drum incident reveal a disturbing truth: violence knows no gender, only pain does. These cases are not isolated events but reflections of a deep social denial that has forced many men to live as unseen victims.
Society’s reluctance to acknowledge their suffering perpetuates a double injustice first, through the abuse itself, and second, through the silence imposed upon them. While India has made commendable progress in protecting women through legal frameworks
like the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, it continues to fall short in offering similar recognition to male victims. On the global stage, many nations have begun amending their laws to protect all victims, acknowledging that fairness cannot exist where compassion is selective. India, as a constitutional democracy built on the ideals of equality, dignity, and justice, must now take the next step toward gender-neutral protection. Creating laws that protect men does not take away from women’s safety; it enhances the credibility and inclusiveness of justice itself. A gender-neutral approach ensures that no victim whether man, woman, or other is left unprotected merely because of social stereotypes or biological assumptions. True equality means listening to every voice that trembles in fear, not just the ones society is comfortable hearing.
The time has come to move from sympathy to recognition, from denial to dialogue, and from gendered justice to human justice. Domestic violence must be seen as a violation of the right to live with dignity, a right guaranteed to every individual under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. Until the law and society together acknowledge this truth, countless unseen victims will continue to suffer behind closed doors, unheard and unprotected. This article is not just an attempt to highlight a neglected reality; it is an appeal, an appeal for balance, fairness, and humanity. Because justice, in its truest sense, is not defined by who the victim is, but by whether every victim is heard.