The Indian government has assured the Supreme Court that it will set up a panel to address the problems faced by the gay community in the country. The move comes as a response to a petition filed by LGBTQIA+ activists seeking decriminalization of homosexuality and protection of the rights of the community.
The government’s assurance was given during a hearing on the petition, where the Centre’s counsel stated that the government was committed to protecting the rights of all citizens, including those from the LGBTQIA+ community.
The government also assured the court that it would set up a panel to address the issues faced by the community.The panel is expected to include members from the LGBTQIA+ community and experts in the field, and will be tasked with identifying the problems faced by the community and finding solutions to address them.
The government has not yet provided a timeline for setting up the panel.The petition seeking decriminalization of homosexuality and protection of LGBTQIA+ rights was filed in the wake of the Supreme Court’s 2013 verdict upholding Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized homosexuality.
The verdict was widely criticized by activists and the LGBTQIA+ community, who saw it as a violation of their rights.In 2018, the Supreme Court struck down Section 377, decriminalizing homosexuality in the country. However, the community still faces discrimination and stigma, and their rights are not fully protected by law.
The government’s move to set up a panel to address the issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community is a positive step towards ensuring that their rights are protected and they are treated equally under the law. It is hoped that the panel will be set up soon and will be effective in identifying and addressing the problems faced by the community.
In conclusion, the Centre’s assurance to the Supreme Court to set up a panel to address the problems faced by the gay community is a positive step towards ensuring that their rights are protected and they are treated equally under the law. It is a welcome move towards building a more inclusive and accepting society.
