A group of men participated in the Mumbai Marathon to promote men’s rights, gender-neutral matrimonial laws, and reducing the number of false cases.

The participants, who are members of NGO Vaastav Foundation, said men’s rights often get ignored and society has to wake up to this cause.

Gaurav Satle, member of the NGO, said there are instances where the legal system has subjugated to the rights of men in the name of protection for women. “It is a belief that men do not need emotional support. The reality is more married men are committing suicide compared to married women,” said Mr. Satle, who is a victim of a false dowry harassment case.

“I was acquitted of all charges. But the Section 498 (A) of the Indian Penal Code is often misused by women,” he said.

Another member, who had also faced a false domestic violence case, said there has to be a mechanism to reduce false cases against men. “We are participating in the marathon for the third year to promote this cause,” he said.