LGBTQ+ rights will test the resolve of politicians

Mass movements have sprung up across countries in support of the rights of the LGBTQ+ community and civil rights movements consider it their duty to take up the multiple concerns of gendered and sexual minorities.

Even though the forces of orthodoxy and conservatism cannot tolerate this new thinking, LGBTQ+ ideas and their struggle for democratic and legal rights are gathering momentum in all countries, including India. In their struggle for equality and dignity, progressive and democratic forces have joined hands with them for de-stigmatisation, equality and social justice.

This formidable wind of change took the grievances of gendered and sexual minorities to the Supreme Court (SC) of India. Proceedings in the 50 plus petitions filed by gender and sexual minority groups were followed keenly by all sections of society.

Millions of human beings directly affected by the discriminatory approach of the government and society were hopeful of a positive judgment.

Large sections of democratic forces who understand the political and sociological meaning of LGBTQ+ rights were also expecting a forward-looking stance from the apex court. The divided judgment that came on October 17, 2023, was disappointing for all these groups, to put it in simple terms. The Union government and conservatives of all shades have welcomed the verdict.