Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee has expressed his support for same-sex marriages, stating that everyone has the right to choose their life partner. He criticized the Indian government for dragging its feet on the issue and expressed hope that the Supreme Court would rule in favor of democracy and the diversity that unites India.
During the third day of the hearing of various petitions seeking marriage equality, the Supreme Court opined that the relationship between same-sex couples is emotional and that the notice inviting objections under the Special Marriage Act was based on patriarchy. The court also countered the government’s submission on the adoption rights of same-sex couples, stating that something innate cannot have a class bias.
The Centre had earlier submitted that petitions seeking legal recognition of same-sex marriage merely reflect urban elitist views and raised preliminary objections on the matter. However, the Supreme Court rejected these arguments, stating that the government had no data to support its claims. The court also remarked that since one of the gay or lesbian couples can still adopt a child, the argument that this will create a psychological impact on the child is belied.
The hearing began with Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informing the Supreme Court that the Centre had filed a fresh affidavit urging the top court to make States and Union Territories parties in the case. Banerjee’s support for same-sex marriages adds to the growing momentum for marriage equality in India, and his words are likely to resonate with many who believe that love should have no boundaries or limits.