6 September 2024: Celebrating the Anniversary of the Removal of Article 377
Kelp (formerly KelpHR)
Building safe, happy and inclusive workplaces. ? PoSH ? D,E&I ? EAP
Reflecting on Progress and the Path Forward for India’s LGBTQIA Movement
As we commemorate the anniversary of the historic Supreme Court decision that decriminalized homosexuality in India by reading down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, we are reminded of the immense strides made by the LGBTQIA community. The years since September 6, 2018, have been a time of significant reflection, advocacy, and growing acceptance, though the journey continues.
A Landmark Moment in Indian History
The removal of Article 377 marked a turning point. As Chief Justice Dipak Misra stated in the 2018 verdict: “History owes an apology to the members of the LGBTQIA community and their families, for the delay in providing redressal for the ignominy and ostracism that they have suffered through the centuries.” This powerful acknowledgment highlighted not just legal change but also societal recognition of the human rights owed to the LGBTQIA community.
What’s Changed Since 2018?
Over the past years, India has seen increased visibility of LGBTQIA individuals in public life, from film and media representation to corporate inclusion initiatives. According to a 2023 Deloitte report, nearly 70% of Indian companies have adopted diversity and inclusion policies that explicitly support the LGBTQIA community. Companies like Tata Steel, Godrej, and Infosys have led the charge in offering equal opportunities and same-sex partner benefits.
There has also been a gradual shift in public sentiment. A 2021 Ipsos survey revealed that about 56% of Indians now support same-sex marriages, a significant rise from earlier years.
领英推荐
The Road Ahead
Though the decriminalization of homosexuality was a milestone, the struggle for equality continues. The push for marriage equality, protection against workplace discrimination, access to healthcare, and the right to adopt are just a few of the challenges still being faced by the LGBTQIA community. According to a 2022 Pew Research Center report, nearly 40% of LGBTQIA individuals still face discrimination in their everyday lives, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and structural reforms.
As we celebrate the anniversary of this historic decision, let us also commit to amplifying the voices of those who remain marginalized within the community. Let’s engage in open conversations with friends, families, and colleagues to foster understanding and acceptance.
Read our blog by apoorva ravi From THEN to NOW: Journey of the LGBTQIA+ Community in India here
References:
Let’s celebrate the victory but also remember, as Harish Iyer, noted LGBTQ+ rights activist says, “The true victory will be when societal attitudes mirror the progress made legally.”