In this conversation, Patruni Chidananda Sastry, a member of LGBTQIA+ community shares personal insights into the legal landscape for LGBTQ+ rights in India, emphasizing empathy, equality, and collective action. Here are some reactions following the Supreme Court’s judgment on the legality of same-sex marriage:
• Making Way for Fair Treatment:
“As an LGBTQ+ member, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud’s call for a preliminary inquiry before FIRs for queer couples reflects empathy. This move can spare queer couples unnecessary trouble when seeking help, providing them with a fair chance to state their case.”
• Parenthood Hopes Dashed:
“We were hopeful for joint adoption; however, the 3:2 verdict left us disappointed. Parenthood should be an individual’s choice. The ruling left many in our community feeling disheartened.”
• Right to Choose Love – A Battle of Equality:
“Justice S Ravindra Bhatt emphasized our right to choose partners. However, the battle for equal legal and societal benefits persists. The disparity between choosing a partner within a queer relationship versus a cis-het relationship denies us equal rights and recognition.”
• Breaking Free from Adoption Barriers:
“While the Supreme Court’s stance against discriminatory adoption regulations is a step forward, it falls short in addressing the unique challenges faced by non-binary individuals. This ambiguity complicates the struggle for recognition and acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community.”
• Legal Recognition and Emotional Impact: A Complex Reality
“The recent Supreme Court verdict, though progressive in recognizing marriages involving transgender individuals, overlooks non-binary cis-heterosexual marriages. This omission raises concerns about the legal status and protection of such unions, leaving individuals like myself in a state of confusion regarding our rights and identity.”
• Paving the Way for Legal Recognition: A Collective Effort
“Considering the current scenario, the legal recognition of same-sex marriage seems uncertain. Public awareness through dialogue and advocacy within the LGBTQ+ community is of utmost importance.”