Gay rights: India sets an example!

Delhi High Court has set a landmark in the history of human justice and equality with its historic judgment of legalising homosexuality. By this judgment the nation has showed the courage to challenge all tradition which restricts human rights.

CJ: BIBIN.S.NATH

Wed, Jul 08, 2009 12:51:27 IST

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Gays and Lesbians Issue :

WITH THE historic judgment of Delhi High Court legalising homosexuality, India has set a fine example before the world. By this judgment the nation has showed the courage to challenge all tradition which restricts human equality and justice. Not many countries in the world have shown green signal to homosexuality.

In its judgment in response to a public interest litigation filed by Naz Foundation, a voluntary body working for gay rights, Delhi Court observed that Section 377 of Indian Penal Code which criminalises homosexuality is unconstitutional as it discriminates against a section of population who were born with a sexual orientation to his/her own sex. The court also observed that consensual sex between those people above 18 years of age is illegal. This day will be remembered as a landmark in the history of human justice and equality. Kudos for the voluntary organisations who worked for gay rights and all those people who showed courage to march through the streets of Indian cities for the fulfillment of their rights.

The time when this judgment came out is also important. The central government a few days ago announced that they are holding serious discussions about repealing section377. But there seems to be a lack of consensus between Home Ministry, Law Ministry and Health and Family Affairs Ministry in this regard. The judgment by Delhi HC can be viewed as the first step. Lot more needs to be done. The other high courts in the country can make similar stands with Delhi HC. The parliament also needs to discuss the issue seriously.

There will be many differences in the opinions regarding this matter. The church authorities had already announced their protest. Such diverse opinions are a part of democratic system and the government should have some leverage to settle down diverse voices and make a consensus.

It is the personal right or freedom of an individual to determine whether he needs a partner of opposite sex or same sex. We cannot deny their rights in the name of anything.

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Posted comments (2)

	It's a shame that this discriminatory law remained even after India became independent. Well, better late than never!
	Athene \| 09 July 2009 Reply to Comment \| New Comment \| Report Abuse

	At least India is moving forward. Now can other countries do the same please.
	Alex Elliott \| 08 July 2009 Reply to Comment \| New Comment \| Report Abuse