Male sexual assault is often taken to be a sign of emasculation within our society. Patriarchy is a double-edged sword. While it ensures women’s bodies and lives are constantly surveilled and policed, it imposes upon men a strict code which they have to adhere to or face rejection and ostracization. In 2019, Rajya Sabha member KTS Tulsi introduced a bill to make the offence of rape gender-neutral, ensuring protection for male and transgender victims. The social stigma attached to male sexual assault prevents men from reporting such incidents to law enforcement officials.
