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Source: The post government created a committee related to the queer community has been created, based on the article “Express View on Centre’s panel of queer rights: Better late than never” published in “Indian express” on 19th April 2024.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-governance-mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.
News: The article discusses a new committee formed by the Indian government to address issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. The Supreme Court has asked the legislature to recognize certain rights for same-sex couples. Progress on queer rights has been slow and uneven in India.
Why has the Indian government created a committee related to the queer community?
Address Discrimination and Violence: The Indian government formed a committee to combat the systemic discrimination and violence that the LGBTQIA+ community faces, especially in accessing social welfare programs.
Supreme Court’s Directive: The creation of the committee follows a directive from the Supreme Court, which, in a landmark judgment, emphasized the need for legislative action to recognize and protect the rights of same-sex couples.
For details information on Same Sex Marriage Verdict read here
Public Support for LGBTQIA+ Rights: A Pew Research survey showed that 53% of Indian adults favor legalizing same-sex marriages, indicating a shift in public opinion that supports the committee’s objectives.
What is the view of the Supreme Court regarding the queer community?
The Supreme Court did not grant constitutional validity to same-sex marriage but instead shifted the responsibility to the legislature.
Specific Rights Mentioned: The court listed specific rights for same-sex couples, including being treated as family for banking, medical needs, jail visitations, and last rites.
Legal Consequences: The Court also outlined legal consequences like succession rights, maintenance, financial benefits under laws like the Income Tax Act, and rights related to employment such as gratuity, family pension, and insurance.
How has progress on queer rights been in India?
Inconsistent Progress: The progress on queer rights in India has been described as “chequered at the best of times,” indicating a slow and uneven advancement.
Judicial Landmarks: A significant judicial action includes the Supreme Court’s decision to read down the provisions of Article 377, which was a pivotal moment for queer rights but not a complete resolution.
Public Opinion: A Pew Research survey conducted between June 2022 and September 2023 showed that 53% of Indian adults support the legalization of same-sex marriages, reflecting growing public acceptance.
Political Manifestos: Only a few political parties, like Congress and CPI(M), address LGBTQIA+ rights in their election manifestos, highlighting the lack of widespread political support for queer rights.
Question for practice:
Examine the Indian government’s response to LGBTQIA+ issues, considering the formation of the committee, the Supreme Court’s stance, and the overall progress on queer rights in the country.
