Abstract: The issue of domestic violence is typically framed as a gender-specific problem that affects women, but in reality, research shows men suffer in intimate relationships, too. However, male victims are more or less ignored due to gaps in laws, societal stigma, and institutional bias. This research paper explores the issue of domestic violence against men through comparative legal analysis, assessing global frameworks on male victim recognition and evaluating India's present legal provisions. In India, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA) gives exclusive legal remedies to women only. Therefore, male victims do not find protection. Lack of gender-neutral domestic violence laws, along with misuse of Section 85 BNS, has given an imbalance in the legal system. Most countries have gender-neutral domestic violence laws such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have domestic violence laws where legal protection is available to all victims. This research highlights the challenges faced by male victims, such as social stigma, lack of legal recourse, and absence of support structures. It advocates for legal reforms in India, amendments to PWDVA, new gender-neutral domestic violence laws, and support systems for men. Recognizing male victims is crucial for achieving true gender justice and ensuring equality before the law.

Introduction:

Domestic violence is one of the major, serious, and widespread problems in India. It has generally been regarded as a woman's problem, though recent studies and reports point to the existence of various types of domestic violence perpetrated against men-including physical, emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual abuse. Unsurprisingly, such victims tend to be invisible in the eyes of society as well as to the law because of deeply ingrained cultural norms and a lack of legal provisions addressing their needs.

In India, the legal framework regarding domestic violence is primarily centered on the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA), enacted to provide a civil remedy for women who experience abuse in domestic settings. The law defines domestic violence broadly, covering physical, emotional, economic, and sexual abuse within relationships. However, the law is gender-specific, offering protection exclusively to women and children. A PWDVA will not protect them regardless of being a victim of abuse or a perpetrator. There is one glaring reason why there are no serious efforts to afford male victims comprehensive legal protection against their perpetrator's exclusion.

Due to the existing lack of neutral gender laws, the Indian judicial system puts them in a tricky situation. Instead of viewing women as victims of abuse, women in India hold men responsible, thus making reporting difficult for abused males. Men seldom realize that they are experiencing domestic violence since the prevalent thinking associates victimization with women. This leads to a lot of underreporting of male victims of domestic abuse. Additionally, cultural values that focus on masculinity also deny men sympathy and support for the violence meted out to them, leading them to suffer in silence.

The situation is worsened by the misuse of legal provisions that were initially intended to protect women. For instance, Section 85 BNS, which deals with cruelty against married women, has often been used for personal vendettas or as a tool to gain financial benefits. Though Section 85 BNS is important for protecting women from marital abuse, many men have suffered false accusations, leading to unnecessary litigation and personal hardship. Misuse of such provisions discourages men from making complaints, as the latter are likely to find their complaints dismissed or turned against them.

Judicial response in India has been relatively delayed in tackling domestic violence against men. More progressive judgments by courts like the Supreme Court ruling on the misuse of 85 BNS cannot compensate for the legal scenario that largely remains hostile to male victims. Shelter homes or helplines for male victims of domestic violence are absent. Male victims are left with no other place to go, given that support structures for women in the country are still limited. Globally, most countries have adopted gender-neutral domestic violence laws, realizing that abuse can happen to anyone irrespective of gender. The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia have reformed their legal frameworks to include all victims of domestic violence, irrespective of gender. These legal frameworks have been effective in providing protection and support to male victims of abuse. India's domestic violence laws are still very gendered and do not provide adequate protection to men. This paper explores the issue of domestic violence against men in India and analyzes the available legal frameworks by providing recommendations for reform. Adhering to gender-neutral laws will ensure the protection and support of all domestic violence victims, irrespective of gender in India.

Understanding Domestic Violence Against Men: A Global Perspective

Global Prevalence of Domestic Violence Against Men Research from multiple countries reveals that a significant proportion of men experience domestic violence, though often at lower reported rates than women.

United States: 

The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS) reports that nearly 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of intimate partner violence in their lifetime: physical violence, sexual violence, or stalking, with or without injury. Though this is an extremely high number, only a small proportion of male victims seek help, partly because of societal stigma: abuse has been associated with women.

United Kingdom: 

According to the leading charity manKind, which supports male victims of domestic abuse, about 40% of domestic abuse victims are male. This fact states that, relatively speaking, men are much more likely to suffer in silence because society expects them to be male and not break the "vulnerability rule" or show a desire to seek help.

Canada: 

A 2019 Statistics Canada report showed that 1 in 3 men will experience domestic violence at some point in their lives, although only a few of them report the abuse to the authorities. Most men who do not report violence face obstacles like fear of ridicule, disbelief, or even the possibility of the abusers escalating the violence.

Australia: 

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, % of male victims of domestic violence do not seek help because they believe that support services are only for women. The crux of the issue is that men often feel that societal norms will prevent them from being believed or taken seriously.

Domestic Violence Against Men in Asia 

Domestic violence against men is an underreported issue across Asia due to deep-rooted cultural norms, patriarchal expectations, and a lack of gender-neutral laws. While some Asian countries have domestic violence laws , most of them only recognize women as victims**, leaving men without legal protection or institutional support. But societal perception that men are strong, dominant, and cannot be a victims does not allow male victims to report abuse. Still, survey reports reveal that a considerable number of men across Asia suffer from domestic violence that includes physical, emotional-psychological, financial, and sexual abuses. 

Legal Frameworks and Challenges Across Asia

India: 

Laws Only women are protected under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA). No case can be filed by the male victim under this act. Issues No gender-neutral domestic violence laws, False cases under Section 80 BNS (dowry harassment). More often than not, legal harassment of men also takes place. Social stigma and lack of male support systems prevent men from seeking help.

China: 

Laws The Anti-Domestic Violence Law (2016) is technically gender-neutral but enforcement heavily favors women. Issues: Low reporting rates among men due to cultural shame. Lack of shelters or legal support for male victims. Survey: A 2019 study found that 10% of Chinese men reported experiencing domestic violence, but the actual figure is likely higher.

Japan: 

Laws The Domestic Violence Prevention Act (2001) does not explicitly exclude men, but most provisions and policies focus on protecting women. Issues Male victims struggle to receive police support, No government-funded shelters or legal aid for abused men. Survey A 2020 Japanese study discovered that 1 in 6 men experienced emotional or physical abuse at the hands of their partner.

South Korea: 

Laws The Act on the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Protection of Victims is not strictly gender-neutral, although, technically, men can also file cases. Problems Men are ridiculed when they report domestic abuse. Few legal and psychological resources for male victims. Survey A 2020 study reported that 13% of South Korean men had experienced intimate partner violence, but most did not report it because of fear of social judgment.

Pakistan: 

Laws The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2020 is applicable only to women. Issues There is no legal recognition of male victims. Men who come forward to report domestic violence are mocked by authorities. Survey Although official statistics are non-existent, studies indicate that 15-20% of males suffer from domestic abuse but are not able to seek help.

Bangladesh: 

Laws The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2010, provides legal protection to women only. One Concern is No gender-neutral domestic violence legislation. There is no legal remedy for the abuse faced by men. Survey A 2021 study reported that 19% of men in Bangladesh suffered from some form of domestic violence, but more than 90% of them never reported it because they feared ridicule.

Other Asian Countries: 

Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines have domestic violence laws, but they mainly target women and do not explicitly identify male victims. Nepal and Sri Lanka contain gender-neutral provisions but male victims rarely receive support from authorities. Key Observations Most Asian countries lack gender-neutral domestic violence laws, which thus makes it challenging for male victims to seek their rights. Cultural stigma and patriarchal norms deter men from reporting abuse. False accusations against men, especially in dowry and cruelty laws like India's 85 and 80 BNS, are complicating the issue further. Compared to the West's legal and social structures, Asia does not provide shelters, helplines, or other networks of support groups for male victims. Asia's legal and social approach toward domestic violence against men remains outdated; therefore, there is an immediate need for changing laws and gender-neutral protections.

Types of Abuse Against Men:

Male victims of domestic violence suffer the same types of abuse. Those abuses can be categorized as:

Physical Abuse: 

Hitting, slapping, punching, choking, and other forms of physical violence. In fact, though fewer men report physical abuse, studies in this area reveal that it occurs across all age groups and in different types of relationships.

Psychological and Emotional Abuse: 

Men often experience manipulation, verbal insults, threats, and isolation from their families or social circles. Psychological abuse is particularly harmful as it erodes self-esteem and mental health, leading to feelings of helplessness, shame, and depression.

Sexual Abuse: 

Male victims of domestic violence are also sexually abused or coerced. Though lesser reported, various studies indicate male sexual assault within relationships; even forced sex is an underreported form of abuse.

Financial Abuse: 

In most instances, male victims suffer financial control where their spouses may deny access to money or manipulate their employment situation or refrain from allowing the victim to stay financially independent.

Stalking and Harassment: 

In some cases, domestic violence extends to stalking and harassment where men experience unwanted attention, for example, persistent following, messaging, or threats.

Legal Framework for Male Victims of Domestic Violence: A Comparative Analysis

A pressing yet under-talked subject on the part of many worldwide communities, Asia includes domestic violence against men. A few nations are trying their best to frame an inclusive, more gender-balanced legal setup for everyone, while other countries follow more gender-biased ways where most emphasis lies on females alone. In the following sections, a comparative legal framework relating to male victims of domestic violence shall be identified between Asian countries and the world in general and noted for all those differences and similarities.

1. Asia: Legal Frameworks for Male Victims:

• India: India's legal system has historically lagged in accepting male victims of domestic violence. The foundation of domestic violence law in India is The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA), which exclusively protects women. Despite the evidence of increased rates of domestic violence against men, this law does not protect male victims. There has been a significant gap in the system. Indian courts have occasionally ruled in favor of men in specific cases of abuse, but there is no comprehensive legislation that includes men as victims of domestic violence. Besides, laws such as Section 85 BNS, enacted to address cruelty towards married women, have often been misused against men, making it more difficult for male victims of abuse.
• China: In China, domestic violence laws have only recently expanded to offer more comprehensive protection for all victims, regardless of gender. In 2016, China enacted its Anti-Domestic Violence Law, the country's first national law addressing domestic abuse. The law recognizes that both men and women can be victims of domestic violence, though social stigma and underreporting remain significant barriers to justice for male victims. The law provides protection orders, legal remedies, and shelter for the victims of domestic violence, but male victims face difficulties in seeking these services, as patriarchal norms are so deeply ingrained that men are discouraged from reporting abuse.
• Japan: Japan has tried to safeguard both women and men against domestic violence with the Domestic Violence Prevention Law, enacted in 2001. Nevertheless, the law focuses more on the female victim, with few provisions directed specifically at male victims. Theoretically, male victims of domestic violence may then access protection through the legal system, but practical hindrances, including social stigma and unwillingness to report abuse, impede them from reporting abuse and seeking help. Also evolving is the dire lack of shelters and support systems specifically for men as their troubles are augmented by the scarcity of male-focused shelters and support systems.
• South Korea: South Korea's Domestic Violence Prevention and Victim Protection Act was enacted in 1997 to provide protection for both males and females. It addresses restraining orders and all supportive services for victims of domestic violence. Nevertheless, male victims still hesitate to seek help due to societal stigma and the general misconception that men cannot be abused. Theoretically, the law is gender-neutral, but practically, women have a better chance of obtaining protection orders and services because the general gender attitude in the country leans towards them.

2. International Legal Frameworks: Global Perspective :

• United States: The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which was amended in 2013, took significant steps toward making provisions gender-neutral for victims of domestic violence. While VAWA was initially a women-only legislation, the 2013 amendment recognized the need to support male victims as well. Today, domestic violence shelters, legal aid, and federal funding are available for men who are victims of abuse, and studies indicate that a considerable number of men access these services. Although that is the case, societal stigma still discourages men from stepping forward, and much of the legal discourse still remains women-centered.
• United Kingdom: The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 is a great leap in the United Kingdom's legal approach towards domestic violence to provide protection to all victims, regardless of their gender. It further empowers the victims to request domestic abuse protection orders (DAPOs) and protection from coercive control that includes economic and emotional abuse. The same protection and services are now accorded to the men, making up about 40% of the victims in the UK. The law has become gender-neutral however, it is still that male victims still encounter significant barriers when seeking support mainly because of how society perceives masculinity.
• Australia: Australia has made efforts to create legal protections for male victims of domestic violence. Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs) are granted to both sexes, and a number of states have services ranging from male-only shelters, hotlines, and support groups. Australia has also launched the One in Three Campaign, which aims to raise awareness about domestic violence against men. Though the country has comprehensive laws, the stigma attached to male victimhood continues to lead to underreporting and reluctance on the part of men to avail of available resources.
• Canada: The criminal code of Canada strictly governs provisions against domestic violence, targeting victims regardless of gender. Laws in Canada are relatively unbiased towards gender, providing male victims with police protection, restraining orders, and emergency shelters. Several services have been established in different provinces of Canada to cater to male victims, including helplines and shelters. Male victims, despite legal protection, do not find it very easy to come out in the open because of social expectations and fear of disbelief and ridicule.

3. Differences and Similarities: 

Across these countries, the only difference is that in terms of the scope of legal protection, it varies among countries. The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have accepted gender-neutral legal frameworks, whereas in Asia it remains focused on the needs of women. Countries such as China and Japan have recently taken up domestic violence issues from a more inclusive point of view but are still unable to implement such laws effectively for male victims. The commonality across most jurisdictions is the recognition of male victims, either explicitly or implicitly, in the legal system. However, significant cultural barriers remain, particularly in Asian societies where deeply ingrained gender norms prevent men from acknowledging their victimization and seeking help.

Domestic Violence Laws in India for Men: A Critical Assessment

India has seen a gradual shift in the acknowledgment of domestic violence, especially with the growing awareness of male victims. However, the legal system, especially under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita[ BNS], has been more concerned with the protection of women, leaving male victims largely unaddressed. Although existing laws do not cover much about protection for men, recent judgments, interpretations by the judiciary, and demands for changes in law speak of a change in laws as gender-specific. The current law, the BNS, is incapable of protecting a male victim against domestic violence completely, but through various sections, it can sometimes be applied in a particular case.

Section 85 Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita: 

Cruelty to Married Women Section 85 BNS has been a core provision for dealing with domestic violence for a long time, targeting cruelty by a husband or his family towards his wife. Though this law has protected women from abuse, it is gender-specific and does not offer any relief to men who are suffering from similar abuse in marital relationships. The law criminalizes physical or mental cruelty and dowry-related harassment, but male victims of domestic violence find themselves without a legal framework to seek redress. As a result, men facing domestic abuse, whether physical, emotional, or psychological, are not fully protected by the BNS. Another criticism has been towards the abuse potential of Section 85 wherein false cases of cruelty might land innocent men in serious social and legal predicaments. This law has been criticized because of its gendered character, which prevents its usage in case men are being physically, emotionally or financially tortured by their spouses.

Section 80 Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita: 

Dowry Death Section 80 of the BNS criminalizes dowry-related deaths, which are often the result of domestic violence. This provision primarily targets women, making it difficult for men to seek protection from similar abuse. Dowry harassment, physical violence, and coercion related to dowry demands predominantly affect women, but the law fails to acknowledge the possibility of dowry abuse against men. Dowry-related violence is one of the significant issues India faces, with most cases falling into the female victim category, though IPC provides very little legal recourse in cases involving males facing the same type of abuse.

Marital Rape: 

The biggest drawback of India's domestic violence law involves the absence of criminal laws against marital rape. As of now, under section 63 of the BNS , marital rape is excluded from the definition of rape, meaning that a husband legally could have non-consensual sex with his wife. This provision is exclusive to women, and while such protection is absent in case of male victims, husbands who are sexually abused or coerced into sexual acts by their wives have no legal recourse. The inability to criminalize marital rape is further reflected as a limitation by the BNS and indicates that legal reform aimed at providing equal protection for all victims of domestic violence is badly needed.

Gender-Neutral Domestic Violence Laws: 

A Step Towards Inclusivity

The primary law offering civil remedies for women experiencing domestic abuse is the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA). But it is only gendered. The law doesn't provide any protection or support to men. As indicated above, certain courts have only recently begun awarding relief to male victims, interpreting the PWDVA's provisions much more liberally. There still is no legislative provision that unmistakably supports males as victims within this Act. Recent judicial pronouncements indicate an evolution of law in the perception of men to be considered a victims, yet this is hardly established in a legal framework yet. Even as a step towards greater recognition of multiple forms of abuse, the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, keeps out male victims of abuse. For male victims suffering emotional abuse or physical/sexual abuse at the hands of intimates, no legal protection, as the existing provisions specifically designed to fulfill those needs of males, are sought to be availed.

The Urgent Need for Gender Neutrality

This is a factor that has become very popular and more so lately with the rise in global legal trends. Most of the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States are designed in a way to safeguard both males and females in the event of domestic violence. In these countries, the effects have been mostly positive, bringing forth legal succor and comfort for all those affected by domestic violence, without consideration of gender.

Challenges Men Face while in Domestic Violence against Them

For male victims of domestic violence, India becomes quite a problematic and challenging society with respect to attaining social services and access to justice because it is strongly inculcated in traditional societal norms that inhibit the space where men might think of talking to someone in need of comfort while being tortured inside their households.

Some of these challenges include;

• Social Stigma and Gender Norms:

In India, the prevalent culture requires a man to be strong, dominant, and always in control. The stereotype is something that prevents males from coming out openly and accepting themselves as victims, for victimization would be seen as emasculating or simply a sign of weakness. Therefore, men are also not readily willing to report abuse due to a sense of ridicule, shame, and judgment from other members of society. The shame that men associate with being a victim of domestic violence feels overwhelming, making them even less likely to speak out.

• Not Protected by the Law:

Even though more and more cases of domestic violence are surfacing, India has only managed to promote the welfare of women. India's main act which offers relief to women is the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA). She doesn't enjoy this same protection as men do. This Act does not extend legal recourse to men who are physically, emotionally, or economically abused by their wives or partners. Moreover, although courts have occasionally interpreted certain provisions in a gender-neutral way, no comprehensive law is enacted solely to safeguard male victims of domestic violence. Much remains to be done for this to be filled in the law.

• Underreporting and Lack of Awareness:

Another significant challenge is the underreporting of domestic violence among men. Many men are not aware of their rights and the legal recourse available to them, which exacerbates the problem. Lack of awareness of male victims' legal rights, coupled with societal pressures to remain silent, leads to underreporting. Many men suffer in silence because there are no clear legal frameworks or support systems in place for them.

• Support Systems Not Available:

In India, the shelters, hotlines, and counseling services are mostly for women victims. Victims who are male find it challenging to access male-friendly shelters, which are primarily meant to offer safety to female and child victims. The availability of a few male-oriented domestic violence shelters or support lines is utterly lacking. Consequently, most of the male victims do not have access to enough resources that can provide them an opportunity to leave dangerous situations.

• Gender Bias in the Legal System:

The bias in India's legal system assumes that women are the victims of domestic violence. Police and authorities, due to societal beliefs regarding gender, dismiss or downplay men's complaints of abuse. Male victims do not get protection or seriousness since the belief still exists that men cannot be victims of domestic violence. This bias in law enforcement leads to a lack of immediate relief for men, leaving them vulnerable to continued abuse

• Emotional and Psychological Abuse:

Emotional and psychological abuse is often underestimated in Indian society, especially when directed at men. Abuse such as gaslighting, verbal insults, financial manipulation, and threats of harm are frequently overlooked in legal contexts. Male victims of such non-physical forms of abuse find it difficult to seek legal help, as these forms of violence are harder to quantify and prove in court.

In conclusion, male victims of domestic violence in India face several challenges, such as social stigma, inadequate legal protection, lack of support systems, and biases in the legal process. All these issues need a societal shift toward recognizing all victims of domestic violence, regardless of gender, and implementing laws and support systems that are inclusive and responsive to the needs of men.

Recommendations for legal reforms in India: Domestic violence against men

Domestic violence laws in India have always held the focus on women. However, the concern now is increasing so much that it calls for reforms that show consideration towards all victims, of which there are men, too. Legal reforms are needed to form an inclusive, gender-neutral framework that assures everybody equal protection irrespective of gender.

Unisex Domestic Violence Statutes:

The very first and most important reform is the introduction of gender-neutral domestic violence laws, which will protect both men and women under similar laws. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) currently addresses only women as victims, whereas the law must be amended to state that both men and women can be victims of domestic abuse. This way, male victims can seek the legal protection offered to females.

Criminalization of Marital Rape for All Genders:

The most egregious failure in Indian domestic violence law is the failure to criminalize marital rape. Section 63 of the (BNS ) excepts marital rape from this definition. This exemption must be done away with, and marital rape must be criminalized for men as well as women, so that victims who are sexually violated within marriage have a legal recourse to seek redress irrespective of gender.

Expanding the Definition of Domestic Violence:

The definition of domestic violence under the PWDVA should be expanded to include psychological, financial, and emotional abuse. The current law focuses on physical violence while neglecting the mental and emotional suffering that many victims endure. Non-physical forms of abuse, such as gaslighting, verbal abuse, control over finances, and coercion, should be explicitly recognized as forms of domestic violence.

Opening of Shelters for Male Victims:

There are no shelters and safe spaces for men in India, while it exclusively has women and children shelters. The male victims will have nowhere to run as a result. To solve the issue, there must be opening for male-only shelters that will provide temporary houses, legal counsel, counseling, and rehabilitation to the male victims who are running from their abusers.

Helplines for Male Victims and Support Services:

In line with the establishment of shelters, helplines and support services should be created specifically for male victims of domestic violence. These services should offer 24/7 support, including legal advice, psychological counseling, and guidance on how to navigate the legal system. Creating awareness about these services will encourage more men to come forward and seek help.

Male Victims Protection Orders:

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) offers protection orders to the victim, which stop the abuser from contacting and harassing the victim. Such protection orders must also be offered to male victims so they can obtain timely legal redress and protection against the abuser. The entire process of issuing protection orders needs to be less cumbersome and within the reach of the victim.

Legal Assistance for Male Victims:

Most male victims of domestic violence face financial constraints, and this acts as a limitation in the process of seeking justice. The government should provide free legal aid to male victims to ensure that they are accorded the opportunity to receive legal representation in court. This will make the legal system accessible to the victims, hence assisting male victims to move around the justice system without fear of being burdened by finances.

Training for Law Enforcement Officers:

Law enforcement officers must be able to respond to cases of domestic violence complaints. Policeman training programs should be made to know male victims, too and take care of their dignity and pride. The nature of domestic violence should be imparted as non-genderly biased and handled with emotional, physical, as well as mental abuse cases of a more empathetic and balanced manner.

Social Awareness Campaigns:

It has become a social malady that women are the only victims of domestic violence. Awareness should be built through public awareness programs to be distributed among society on the prevalence of domestic violence against men, as well as other harmful myths that exist around domestic violence. Encourage male voices to express themselves and help those who suffer. Media channels, schools, and community institutions can be mobilized for such efforts.

Revising Divorce and Custody Laws:

Domestic violence increasingly influences divorce and child custody cases. Marriage and divorce laws under Section 13 of the Hindu Marriage Act should be amended with regard to domestic violence against men so that it becomes grounds for divorce. Likewise, regarding child custody, the determination of custody must consider their history of domestic violence regardless of their sex.

Fast Track Courts for Domestic Violence:

For immediate relief for domestic violence victims, there must be the introduction of fast-track courts for handling domestic violence cases with both genders included as victims. Fast-track courts would specialize in the issue of domestic violence with its special court precedence so that it doesn't wait on regular courts that may already have an overpopulation of pending cases, delaying victims who may seek quick remedies.

Awareness of Male Victims' Rights

Most men are not aware of their legal rights as victims of domestic violence. There should be an informational campaign to educate men about their rights under Indian law. This could include the distribution of pamphlets, online resources, and outreach through local NGOs and legal aid organizations to inform men of their ability to seek justice and protection.

Role of Family and Community:

Domestic violence often emanates from family dynamics and societal attitudes. There should be a family counseling service offered to victims and perpetrators of domestic violence, focusing on gender equality and mutual respect, and counseling to prevent violence and treatment of causative and habitual factors in abusers. Community-based programs focusing on gender-neutral violence prevention must also be established in the grassroots setting to shift public perceptions about male victims.

Case Laws on Domestic Violence Against Men:

Although domestic violence against men is grossly underreported and lacks specific legal recognition in many countries, courts have sometimes acknowledged male victimization. Below are some important case laws and judgments related to domestic violence against men, particularly in India and globally.

Rajesh Sharma & Ors v. State of U.P. (2017) 8 SCC 821 (India)

The Key Issue is the Misuse of Section 498A IPC (Cruelty Against Women) leading to false cases against men. Judgment was - The Supreme Court observed that Section 498A IPC (which criminalizes cruelty by husbands and in-laws) was being misused as a tool for harassment. It directed that no automatic arrests should be made in 498A cases without prior investigation. Importance The judgment recognized the fact that men, too, can be wrongly maligned and that some legal protection must be provided against its misapplication.

Hiral P. Harsora & Ors v. Kusum Narottamdas Harsora & Ors (2016) 10 SCC 165 (India):

The Major Issue is Gender discrimination in the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA). The Decree was The Supreme Court eradicated the word adult male from Section 2(q) of PWDVA, making it possible for women also to file complaints against other female relatives. Protection for male victims, however, was not extended, thereby maintaining the gender-based character of the law. Significance While the ruling expanded the scope of perpetrators, it failed to address the issue of men as victims of domestic violence.

Sushil Kumar Sharma v. Union of India (2005) 6 SCC 281 (India):

The Key Issue was the Misuse of Section 498A IPC, and the court passed judgment was The Supreme Court acknowledged that false cases of domestic violence against men were rising. It provided that legislation couldn't be put to oppression. It required the lower court to scrutinise the case even before taking legal action. The point of this ruling was that to avoid false alarms against men and to bring true justice, judiciary scrutiny is most essential.

R v. Dhaliwal (2006) EWCA Crim 1139 United Kingdom:

This case dealt with the issue of psychological abuse involving men. The Court of Appeals acknowledged that psychological and emotional abuse can also be classified under a domestic violence case. The ruling was important in terms of establishing that not every abuse is physical and that a man can be a victim of coercive control as well. The importance was established psychological violence as a basis for case bringing.

Silverman v. Silverman, 2010 (United States, Minnesota Supreme Court):

The Key Issue was that Male victims of domestic violence seek protection against an abusive spouse. The court granted a decision restraining order against the wife, which acknowledged that men are also victims of domestic violence. It established a precedent for gender-neutral application of domestic violence laws in the United States.

Conclusion:

Domestic violence against men in India is still significantly under-addressed, primarily due to the deep-rooted gender stereotypes and a legal framework that has traditionally focused on female victims. However, as societal awareness grows and more men come forward to share their experiences, the need for reform in India's domestic violence laws has become clear. Legal reforms must incorporate gender-neutral provisions -such as expanding the scope of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) to cover male victims, criminalizing marital rape, and establishing male-specific shelters-in order to bring the legal system up to speed. Further, the government should establish awareness programs, enhance police training, and offer free legal aid for free to men for them to be served without the stigma attached to seeking justice or having adequate funds to pursue their cases. Another thing that is highly important is to recognize non-physical forms of abuse, such as emotional and financial violence as well, which requires the establishment of proper legal avenues The integration of male victims into existing frameworks must go hand-in-hand with changing public perceptions about domestic violence. Shifting away from outdated gender norms and fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and equality will enable a more supportive legal and social ecosystem for all victims, regardless of gender. Ultimately, India's legal reforms should aim to balance the protection of all victims while maintaining fairness and equity. With these reforms, India can pave the way for a legal system that truly provides justice for all victims of domestic violence, irrespective of gender.

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