Same-sex marriage: Rooted in ancient texts and history, yet struggling to gain acceptance in modern days

Same Sex Marriage: Supreme Court's recent decision to reject the legalization of same-sex marriage left countless LGBTQ+ couples and activists disheartened.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud said that "Queerness is a natural phenomenon known to India since ancient times."

Rooted in ancient scriptures

From Valmiki Ramayana to temples of Khajuraho, homosexuality has been a major part of our ancient scriptures and temples. While ancient Indian texts, inscriptions, and temple wall paintings do not explicitly endorse homosexuality, they do make multiple references acknowledging its existence during those times. History of homosexuality in India and evidence of same-sex relationships are found in ancient manuscripts, statues, and relics dating back to 1500 BC.

Influence of Victorian values

During British colonization, the strong influence of Victorian values and the control of patriarchy made homosexuality even more marginalized in India. South Africa was the first country to recognize the rights of homosexuals in a civil manner in 1994.

While society is slowly becoming more accepting of same-sex marriages, there are still many constitutional bans on such marriages in various states, leading to the denial of legal and financial rights that are granted to married couples.

Decriminalization of section 377

In India, the decriminalization of section 377 of the IPC in 2018 in the case of Navtej Singh V. Union of India was a significant step towards recognizing the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. While progress has been made in recognizing the rights of same-sex couples, there is still a long way to go in terms of full equality.

Also watch: As SC's verdict on same sex marriage comes, let's understand what LGBTQIA+ stands for