Source: BBC | Image Courtesy: ekekeee
As of November 16, 2015, Ireland has emerged victorious with respect to human rights and same-sex marriages. Same-sex marriages have now been legalised, making Ireland one of the only 14 nations in the world to have done so.
What is worth noting here is that for the first time, a referendum was conducted for the same on May 22, 2015, under which the proposal was approved of by an overwhelming 62%.
Other nations to have legalised same sex marriages include France, Luxembourg, Spain, Canada and Sweden. While the recognition of the LGBT Human Rights campaign is commendable, it is saddening to notice the lukewarm response it has received in Asia and Africa. South Africa is the only country from its continent to have legalised same sex marriages, while no country in all of Asia has done so.
The situation in India is quite disheartening. We do recognise the third gender, and legally, an individual has the right to change his/her sex, which is worthy of appreciation. However, same-sex sexual activity is yet to be decriminalised. Also the lack of anti-discrimination laws paints a rather bleak picture. Unless we decriminalise Article 377 and bring in strong anti-discrimination laws, as we have in numerous other fields, we are neglecting an entire community on the retrogressive basis of who they choose to love.
The people of Ireland have shown maturity and compassion in being able to mould their mindsets with changing times, and stand up for equality and justice of all genders. An individual’s sexual preference is his/her choice alone. Being able to marry someone of your choice should be considered a basic right, which we are depriving a section of. We need to understand that the relationship two consenting adults share should be of no concern to anyone but the parties involved.
The Logical Indian lauds the decision of the people of Ireland, and hopes more countries will soon follow suit.
