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In a shocking incident on a local train, a male passenger was forcibly kissed by another man. When confronted, the perpetrator shamelessly responded, “Mera mann kar raha tha” (I felt like it). What makes this even more distressing? The man’s wife was present — and the incident was brushed aside like a joke. No
This scenario raises a critical question: Why is harassment against men often dismissed or treated with less gravity? Had the roles been reversed — a man harassing a woman — there would likely have been public outrage, possibly even police intervention. But when a man is the victim, society’s response is often indifference or ridicule.
Men who face harassment or assault are frequently met with disbelief, mockery, or assumptions that they should have “fought back.” Cultural norms paint men as perpetual protectors, implying they can’t be vulnerable or unwilling participants in uncomfortable or abusive situations. This stigma discourages victims from speaking out, fearing social humiliation or accusations of weakness.
Harassment is harassment, regardless of gender. Yet, public discourse and media coverage often skew towards female victims, leaving male survivors overlooked. The #MeToo movement shed light on widespread abuse, but similar conversations for men struggle to gain traction.
If a woman had been assaulted in public, bystanders might have stepped in. But when a man is violated, it’s often brushed off as comedic or inconsequential — a deeply troubling double standard that perpetuates harm.
Every victim deserves support and justice. Men should feel safe reporting harassment without fear of judgment or dismissal. Awareness campaigns must emphasize that unwanted advances and physical violations are unacceptable, no matter the gender of the victim or perpetrator.
We need to foster an environment where men’s voices are heard, and their experiences validated. Only then can we hope to build a society that truly stands against ALL forms of harassment.
The issue is more complex than many might realize. Male harassment can take many forms: from unwanted physical contact and catcalling to emotional and psychological manipulation. Yet, these experiences are often trivialized or outright ignored, with victims made to feel like their trauma is insignificant.
Consider the legal landscape. While many countries have made great strides in protecting women from harassment and abuse, legal protections for men are often lacking. Laws designed to protect victims can sometimes be skewed, making it more difficult for men to prove their cases or receive justice.
Society’s tendency to downplay male victimhood stems from outdated ideas of masculinity. The notion that a “real man” should be tough and emotionally impervious makes it harder for male victims to come forward. The pressure to adhere to these societal expectations leaves many men suffering in silence, convinced that admitting vulnerability would compromise their identity.
Even in pop culture, harassment against men is often played for laughs. Movies and TV shows depict scenarios where men are inappropriately touched or pursued, but the audience is expected to chuckle rather than be concerned. This normalization in entertainment reinforces the idea that male harassment is inconsequential, adding another layer of difficulty for those trying to speak up.
Education is a key part of addressing this issue. Schools, workplaces, and community organizations should provide training that acknowledges harassment as a universal issue. Teaching empathy, boundaries, and respect for all people, regardless of gender, is essential to creating a safer and more just society.
Support systems must also evolve. Mental health resources tailored to male victims of harassment should be more accessible and widely promoted. Victim support organizations should ensure their services are inclusive and sensitive to the unique challenges male survivors face. No
Ultimately, the fight against harassment must be inclusive. We cannot claim to stand for equality if we overlook the suffering of any group. Men deserve to live free from harassment, just as women do. By amplifying male voices, challenging societal double standards, and fostering empathy, we can move towards a future where every victim receives the care and justice they deserve.
What are your thoughts? Have you or someone you know experienced this kind of bias? Let’s discuss and raise awareness.
Speak up. Stand against harassment. For everyone.
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