Madras High Court Orders Progressive Reforms to Support LGBT+ Rights
Tamil Nadu is on track to make history as the first Indian state to ban conversion therapy, following a landmark ruling by the Madras High Court that prioritizes inclusion for the LGBT+ community. The court’s judgment, issued by Justice N Anand Venkatesh, calls for societal reforms, including changes to educational curriculums and awareness programs for police, prison officials, and judiciary members to deepen understanding of LGBT+ rights.
The ruling is a milestone, especially during Pride Month, as it prohibits “attempts to medically cure or change the sexual orientation of LGBTQIA+ individuals to heterosexual or transgender individuals to cisgender.” Justice Venkatesh’s decision was prompted by a plea from a lesbian couple seeking protection after fleeing from family disapproval. Following a police investigation, the couple approached the court, which granted them safety assurances while emphasizing the need for societal change.
On social media, advocates have praised the decision as a meaningful step toward LGBT+ equality in India, with many calling it a “fitting tribute” to Pride Month.
