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On not giving in

Even as the Delhi high court’s landmark judgment reviewing the constitutionality of certain readings of the archaic Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code compels the state to revisit its earlier stand on homosexuality, angry voices of opposition are already beginning to be heard. Maulana Khalid ....Read more

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More objectivity requiredBy: Raj Bhadra Singh | Tuesday , 7 Jul '09 10:53:39 AM Reply | Forward Surest way of winning an argument in these times is to select religious conservatives as your opponents. By this one act you are magically absolved of the usual requirements of reasoning the merits and demerits of the issue. So HC verdict on section 377 is transformed into a weapon which will demolish religious obscurantism. Argument will make you believe that only ones who are opposing are the ones who oppose any change in society citing religious beliefs. Opposition to civil code for Hindus is equated to the opposition on Article 377. Civil code barred polygamy, was it not infringement of rights of adult citizen to choose? Selective recall of issues will convince you that position taken by such religious elements has always been to the disadvantage of deprived. Activists refuse to believe that anyone not blinded by religious prejudice can have a position contrary to what they have. Many judges, parliamentarians, citizens have over the years held a different view.

Great column.By: Ujjal | Tuesday , 7 Jul '09 8:31:17 AM Reply | Forward I am not sure what is more appalling - the comments made by the religious fundamentalists or the lack of a backbone on part of our politicians. Unfortunately, education, unlike in Western world, never led to an actual opening of the mind and thought in India. Being gay is not a choice and is observed in nature as well. Not having the right to be oneself and being open to harassment should not be part of any tolerant and open society but I am not sure if those adjectives apply to India as the comments have proven. India will never join the club of enlightened nations (and rightfully so) till we change our own thoughts and outlook to one of essential humanity as against intolerance and bigotry. Enlightenment is not about 9% economic growth but about respecting other human beings. It is not about respecting the rights of 1% of the population (which could be an argument by itself for these bigots) but about the basic right of any human being to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

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