Subramanian Swamy: Homosexuality is a Genetic Disorder Like Having Six Fingers
BJP MP Subramanian Swamy has given his thoughts on the Supreme Court verdict decriminalising homosexuality, stating, “It is the American game. Soon there will be gay bars here where homosexuals can go. HIV will spread. So, after looking at the consequences I hope the next Govt will move a 7 judge bench to set aside this 5 judge bench order.”
Swamy adds:
It is basically a genetic disorder, like someone having six fingers. Medical research must be done to rectify it.Subramanian Swamy, BJP MP, on homosexuality
International Court of Justice Welcomes SC Verdict
“This judgment will not only have an impact in India. Its influence should extend across the world. The ICJ hopes that it will provide an impetus for other countries, especially those of the Commonwealth of Nations, to revoke similar provisions that criminalize consensual sexual relations,” ICJ Asia Pacific Director Frederick Rawski stated.
Even a landmark decision by the Indian Supreme Court cannot alone end the discrimination against people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is time for the Indian Parliament to conduct wide-ranging review of existing legal framework, repeal discriminatory laws, and address other gaps in the law that prevent LGBT persons from fully exercising their rights.ICJ Statement
Humsafar Trust: We Waited 18 Years, but It Was Worth It, Azaadi Finally in India!
We waited 18 years for this but it was worth every minute to be finally free of Section 377. Azaadi finally in Azaad India!Ashok Row Kavi, Founder Chairperson, The Humsafar Trust
The Humsafar Trust is a community-based organization in Mumbai working in the area of health and human rights of sexual minorities, and one of the petitioners who moved the SC against Section 377.
18 years of hard work has finally paid off but this is just the beginning of a long journey for equal rights in society. There is so much more to do, so many dreams have to come true, but today I look forward to a good night’s sleep for I am no longer a criminal!Vivek Raj Anand, CEO, The Humsafar Trust
Celebrations Across India Welcoming the Supreme Court's Verdict on Section 377
From former Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi to activist Akkai Padmashali in Chennai, author Devdutt Pattnaik and actor Richa Chadha, we’re getting reactions welcoming the verdict from across the country.
It is an important decision. I’m happy as Court has realised the right of LGBTs, their pain and gave them proper space in the society. Most important thing about this decision is that they will be given equal rights like others.Mukul Rohatgi, Former Attorney General
Amnesty International: SC Verdict is a Historic Step
The landmark ruling by India’s Supreme Court decriminalizing consensual same-sex relations is a historic step, which sends a message of hope not only to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people, but to everyone fighting for justice and equality, Amnesty International India said today.
The judgment closes the door on a dark chapter of Indian history. It marks a new era of equality for millions of people in India. The remarkable victory today is a milestone in the three decade old struggle by the LGBTI community and their allies in India.Asmita Basu, Programmes Director, Amnesty International India.
The Court’s unanimous verdict has upheld the right to equality, privacy, dignity and freedom of expression of all people regardless of their sexual orientation. The apex court added that any discrimination on basis of sexual orientation is a violation of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.
“As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, ‘the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice’. Section 377 as it stood, violated basic human rights standards on equality, privacy and dignity. While today’s judgement answers the constitutional invalidity of Section 377, the struggle for the rights of LGBTI people continues, including in relation to marriage, adoption or inheritance ,” said Asmita Basu.