Lucknow, Apr 29 : The Mera Adhikaar Rashtriya Dal (MARD) stands apart from traditional political parties, prioritizing its mission to represent the voice of ‘mard’ (men) and safeguard their dignity, regardless of electoral outcomes. Despite facing defeats and losing deposits in every election contested since its inception in 2018, MARD remains steadfast in its commitment.
Unfazed by past losses, MARD has released its ‘MANifesto’ for the current Lok Sabha polls, championing the slogan “Beton ke samman me, ‘mard’ utre maidan me” (In honour of sons, men have stepped onto the battleground). Presently, the party has announced candidates for three constituencies: Lucknow, Ranchi, and Gorakhpur.
Previously, MARD contested in seven different elections, including Lok Sabha and assembly polls, emphasizing its dedication to raising awareness about men’s issues. Ashutosh Kumar Pandey, MARD’s national general secretary, reiterated their purpose, stating, “We have jumped into the fray in honour of men, to raise the voice for those who are harassed and exploited in the name of women’s security.”
Acknowledging the possibility of candidates losing deposits again, Pandey emphasized the party’s grassroots approach, operating without significant financial backing or donations. Despite limited resources, MARD aims to catalyze broader discourse on men’s rights. Kapil Mohan, the party’s national president, highlighted the suppression of men in the quest to empower women, a concern central to MARD’s platform.
In its ‘MANifesto,’ MARD advocates for the establishment of a separate Men’s Welfare Ministry and National Men’s Commission to ensure men’s perspectives are integrated into policy formulation. Additionally, the party proposes a Men’s Security Bill to counter laws perceived as biased against men. Pandey outlined plans for a “Men power line,” akin to existing helplines for women, to address harassment and ensure men’s grievances are heard.
Furthermore, MARD pledges to support women’s self-reliance to prevent undue pressure on men regarding alimony. Pandey underscored the urgency of addressing men’s mental health concerns, citing alarming suicide rates attributed to societal neglect.
Despite electoral setbacks, MARD remains resolute in its mission to advocate for men’s rights and challenge systemic biases. With each contest, the party aims to foster greater awareness and recognition of men’s issues, emphasizing the importance of an inclusive approach to gender equality.
