New Delhi, India — In a country where discussions about women's rights dominate much of the social and political discourse, a unique political party has emerged, dedicated to advocating for men's rights. The Mera Adhikar Rashtriya Dal (MARD), founded in 2009, is making its presence felt in the political arena by championing the cause of men who feel marginalized by current laws. Despite facing numerous challenges and a lack of electoral success, MARD is determined to continue its fight, preparing to contest the 2024 general elections with candidates in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Ranchi.
MARD was established by a group of men who had encountered legal difficulties under laws like the Dowry Prohibition Act and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act. These laws, designed to protect women, sometimes lead to legal challenges for men, especially in cases of alleged misuse. Kapil Mohan Choudhary, one of the founders and the current party president, has been at the forefront of this movement. His own experiences, including a prolonged and unresolved dowry case dating back to 1999, were the catalysts for the party's formation.
Kapil’s personal life has been marked by legal battles and a divorce, which further fueled his resolve to advocate for men’s rights. In 2011, he remarried and continued his activism, channeling his experiences into political action. The party’s slogan, "Mard ko dard hota hai" (Men feel pain), encapsulates their core message, highlighting the emotional and legal struggles men face.
Since its inception, MARD has contested several elections but has yet to achieve significant electoral success, often forfeiting deposits in the process. Despite these setbacks, the party remains undeterred and is gearing up for the upcoming general elections. Kapil Mohan Choudhary himself will be contesting from Lucknow, a key constituency where he hopes to gain traction for MARD’s cause.
The party’s platform includes ambitious proposals aimed at addressing what they see as biases in existing laws. These proposals include the establishment of a 'Ministry of Men's Welfare' and a 'National Commission for Men' to parallel existing bodies for women. One of their key legislative proposals is the 'Men's Safety Bill,' designed to protect men from what they perceive as unfair treatment under current laws.
MARD’s policy agenda is comprehensive and seeks to create a more balanced legal framework. Among their proposals is the creation of a 'Men's Power Line,' a helpline dedicated to addressing family-related issues faced by men. This initiative aims to provide support and guidance to men navigating complex family dynamics, especially in cases of domestic disputes and custody battles.
Another significant proposal is the establishment of a 'Family Welfare Committee.' This body would oversee matters like child custody post-divorce, aiming to ensure fair treatment for fathers in custody decisions. Additionally, MARD proposes the end of live-in relationships, arguing that such arrangements often lead to legal complications and emotional distress for men.
Despite their focus on men's rights, MARD emphasizes that their goal is not to undermine the rights of women but to address what they see as an imbalance in the current legal system. Kapil Mohan Choudhary has made it clear that the party is open to women members and supporters who share their vision of fairness and justice for all. This inclusivity is a crucial aspect of MARD’s identity, aiming to build a broader coalition that includes individuals concerned about gender-based legal biases.
MARD’s emergence and persistence in Indian politics highlight a unique and often overlooked aspect of gender rights. While women’s rights have rightly received significant attention and advocacy, MARD brings to the forefront the issues faced by men in a legal system they believe is skewed against them. Their advocacy for a Ministry of Men's Welfare and a National Commission for Men reflects a desire to institutionalize support for men in ways similar to existing structures for women.
As MARD prepares for the 2024 general elections, the party is focused on increasing its visibility and resonance with the electorate. Their campaign will likely highlight the personal stories of its members, showcasing the real-life impacts of the legal challenges they face. By doing so, MARD hopes to garner empathy and support from a broader audience, including those who may not have previously considered the need for men’s rights advocacy.
In a political landscape dominated by larger, more established parties, MARD's journey is a testament to the diverse and evolving nature of Indian democracy. Their continued efforts, whether they result in electoral success or not, contribute to the broader dialogue on gender and justice in India. The 2024 elections will be a crucial test for MARD, determining whether their message can translate into tangible political influence and bring about the legislative changes they seek.
In the end, MARD's story is not just about men’s rights but about the ongoing struggle for justice and fairness in a complex and often contentious legal landscape. Whether they succeed at the polls or not, their advocacy ensures that the conversation about gender and legal equity continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse experiences and challenges of all citizens.