• The Delhi high court judgment on Section 377 is not only constitutionally correct but also necessary to annul anomalies of personal laws in India. The judgment is based on the premise that all laws which discriminate against individuals on grounds of sex and sexuality would violate constitutionally-granted fundamental rights. The judgment doesn’t say anything about the ethical or social values of homosexuality. I, therefore, wish that this case is carried to the Supreme Court where, in my opinion, the view of the Delhi high court is likely to be upheld. If this happens, not only homosexuals but also women of all communities will be protected from alleged discriminatory provisions of their personal laws. Also, those who apprehend that this judgment would trivialise the institution of marriage are misinformed.

— T.U. Mehta

Former Chief Justice (Retd) High Court of Himachal Pardesh

Faith renewed

• Gautam Bhan’s ‘On freedom’s avenue’ made one realise that the high court ruling is indeed a step towards a more liberal India. However, it’s not just that. The judgment is a reaffirmation of the sanctity and power of the Constitution. Equality before law for LGBTs and ceasing to treat them as criminals should tell us that India can find inspiration within, instead of turning to the West.

— Rashmi Partoti

Pune

Social sentiments

• There’s no doubt Mamata Banerjee’s “populist” railway budget has a lot of innovations. When it comes to the “worrying sentiments”, I believe these sentiments should be considered socially worthwhile. As the biggest public employer in the world, the Indian Railways can’t ignore welfare of the aam janata. Some of Banerjee’s innovations will generate indirect employment, while the budget is kind to the passenger. Since we talk of corporate social responsibility, the Railways could lead the way.

... contd.