On July 2nd 2009, the New Delhi Supreme Court decriminialized 'consensual acts' of homosexuality, thereby, making the archaic British-imposed s377 obsolete. This particular clause stipulated that individuals caught in 'carnal' acts that went against stated norms were eligible for imprisonment. However, the New Delhi SC decided that the application of s377 directly impinges on individual's freedom.
Such a momentous decision in a thriving new power is definitely a sign to herald for other nations that are still striving for equal sexuality rights and acceptance. For example, in Bangladesh, the news was met with much approval and optimism that similar legal stances will occur in our country as well. However, for us who work to advocate and promote sexuality rights, we must be careful not to expect a similar shakedown of s377 take place in our country that has yet to accept homosexuality.
Instead, we must rejoice in the historic decision and feel emboldened to create plans that will ensure succcess in our fight. Bearing in mind that even in the country of the free and brave, United States has yet to completely remove all legal impediments imposed on homsexuals. If the country that paved the way for gay rights movement to evolve cannot efface legal and social abhorrence of homosexual lifestyles, then we can't expect a developing nation as ours to take the brave stand so soon. Yet there is always hope. As long as we slowly but determinedly walk towards it hand in hand.
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