Foreign Influence: Role of The World in Indian Society

For years, people have believed that the LGBTQIA+ community in India is some sort of “Western influence.” But when we dive into our history and mythology, a different picture emerges—one where gender fluidity and same-sex love have always been part of our culture. Our mythology is filled with stories where gender wasn’t exactly a binary concept. And if you thought Lihaaf by Ismat Chugtai was bold, imagine what social media would have said back in the day!

Blame the British (Again!)

While India was once open about gender and sexuality, the British arrived and, well, messed up our mindset. In 1861, they introduced Section 377, a law that basically said, “No more fun, love only happens one way!” This law pushed the LGBTQIA+ community into the shadows and began a long period of pretending things didn’t exist.

The Fight for Equality

In the 2000s, things started heating up (and not just because of climate change). The Naz Foundation challenged Section 377, and in 2009, the Delhi High Court decriminalized homosexuality. But the excitement was short-lived—like when our Wi-Fi cuts out during a binge session. In 2013, the Supreme Court reinstated Section 377, pushing the LGBTQIA+ community back into the shadows.

Fast forward to 2018, and after years of resilience and activism, the Supreme Court finally got it right. The criminalization of same-sex relationships was struck down, and it was a yass queen moment for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Six Years Later: So, What’s the Tea?

It’s been six years since that victory, and while same-sex love is no longer a crime, the journey isn’t over. LGBTQIA+ couples still can’t get married, making the dream of a big fat Indian wedding seem distant. On the plus side, you can now open a joint bank account with your partner!

Corporate India

While the legal system is still dragging its feet, corporate India seems to be catching up. Some companies are offering insurance benefits for queer partners, and workplaces are starting to embrace gender-sensitization programs. But sadly, we’re still waiting on those gender-neutral washrooms :(

The Road Ahead for Us

For our generation, it’s about more than just laws—it’s about changing mindsets. Whether it’s showing up for Pride, creating LGBTQIA+ safe spaces in schools, or calling out that one friend who still thinks it’s okay to make lame homophobic jokes, we’ve got a big role to play.

As we celebrate six years since the decriminalization of same-sex love, let’s remember this isn’t just about legal wins—it’s about everyday acceptance and creating a future where everyone can be themselves, no filter needed!