Q. Consider the following statements with respect to LGBTQIA+:
1. The Supreme Court of India has recognised same-sex marriages as a constitutional right.
2. The LGBTQIA+ couples can avail the facilities of ration card.
3. The LGBTQIA+ couples can open joint bank accounts and nominate each other as beneficiaries.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Explanation –
Statement 1 is incorrect. The Supreme Court of India has not recognized same-sex marriages as a constitutional right. While the Court has acknowledged the importance of the issue and the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals to cohabit and be free from discrimination, it has left the decision to legalize same-sex marriages to Parliament and state legislatures.
Statements 2 and 3 are correct. The Union government has issued advisories to ensure that LGBTQIA+ couples are considered part of the same household for the purpose of ration cards. This means they can apply for and receive ration cards without facing discrimination. The Department of Financial Services has clarified that LGBTQIA+ couples cannot be prevented from opening joint bank accounts and are allowed to nominate each other as beneficiaries. This measure is part of broader efforts to ensure equal access to financial services for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Source: The Hindu
