Violations of human rights of men in legal matters need to be addressed

This article is intended to bring attention of lawmakers regarding the several critical issues concerning the treatment of men in legal matters within our judicial system. the violation of human rights for men essentially violating the principles of Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

This is to bring in attention that violations of human rights of men has affected men’s development at large. Men are facing human rights violation in legal matters. These issues violates the various articles pertaining to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

Article 7: Equal Protection of the Law and Equality before the Law

In legal matters concerning women, the law treats women as inherently innocent while portraying men as inherently guilty. A mere statement can lead to a prima facie case and subsequent arrest of a man, reflecting an unjust bias that violates Article 7 of the UDHR. This imbalance undermines the principle of equality before the law.

Article 9: No Arbitrary Arrest or Detention

Men are frequently arrested based solely on statements that establish a prima facie case. Such statements should not be considered sufficient reason for arrest, as they often lack substantive evidence. This practice constitutes a violation of Article 9 of the UDHR, which protects individuals from arbitrary arrest and detention.

Article 10: Right to a Fair and Public Hearing

In many cases involving women, courts often presume men to be guilty without proper consideration of evidence. In CrPC 125 cases, the focus is disproportionately on awarding maintenance to women, with courts acting as advocates for the women involved. Many women who voluntarily leave their matrimonial homes receive maintenance orders, sending a message that women can secure “marriage pensions” (free money) simply by filing cases. This practice violates Article 10 of the UDHR, which guarantees the right to a fair and public hearing.

Article 11: Presumption of Innocence until Proven Guilty

In cases of rape, dowry harassment, domestic violence, and maintenance, the burden of proof often falls unjustly on the accused men. Courts require men to prove their innocence, implying their guilt from the outset. Even when acquitted, men are often released due to a “lack of evidence” rather than a clear declaration of innocence. This practice violates Article 11 of the UDHR, which upholds the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.