India is rejoicing in celebration after the the Supreme Court unanimously ruled to decriminalize homosexual sex. This is a historic move forward in the fight for gay rights.
In India, gay sex, up until today, was punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The law was created in 1861 and was upheld, directly harming and discriminating against India’s gay community almost 160 years.
Not only did the Supreme Court decide to decriminalize gay sex, every single person on the Supreme Court was in agreement, on the basis that discrimination against sexual orientation is unconstitutional.
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“Constitutional morality cannot be martyred at the altar of social morality,” Chief Justice Dipak Misra said, reading the verdict. “Social morality cannot be used to violate the fundamental rights of even a single individual.”
This historic judgment has prompted a massive celebration among queer Indians and human rights supporters across the world.
Delhi: Celebrations at The Lalit hotel after Supreme Court legalises homosexuality. Keshav Suri, the executive director of Lalit Group of hotels is a prominent LGBT activist. pic.twitter.com/uncvvgtSfv
— ANI (@ANI) September 6, 2018
Among many jubilant celebrations, staff erupted in a dance party at Delhi’s luxury hotel Lalit — which is run by one of the activists who fought Thursday’s case, and home to Delhi’s gay-friendly nightclub. Across India, LGBTQ people and allies took to the streets with giant rainbow banners, flags and balloons.
“Criminalising carnal intercourse under section 377 Indian penal code is irrational, indefensible and manifestly arbitrary,” said the chief justice, Dipak Misra, in his decision.
To read more about this LGBTQ rights triumph, click here.
GO Mag is elated at this step forward in advancing the rights, dignity, and lives of LGBTQ people across the globe. Congratulations, India!
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