Andhra Pradesh, Assam, And Rajasthan Oppose Legalization Of Same Sex Marriage

The Central government's invitation for comments on the same-sex marriage case before the Supreme Court prompted responses from several Indian states, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, and Rajasthan. Andhra Pradesh, for instance, stated that after consulting with religious leaders from various religions in the state, it was against granting legal recognition to same-sex marriages and the LGBTQIA+ community.

Assam government argued that the recognition of same-sex marriage and the LGBTQIA+ community challenges the validity of marriage laws and personal laws enforced in the state. The government acknowledged that the matter calls for extensive discussions on various aspects of marriage as a social institution across different sections of society. It emphasized that the legal understanding of marriage has been an agreement between two persons of opposite genders. The state government also pointed out that legislation falls under the purview of the legislature, both at the Center and in the states, and urged the courts to view legislation matters in line with the core principles of democracy. Additionally, the letter stated that marriage, divorce, and other associated subjects are within the domain of the state legislature as per Entry 5 of the Concurrent list of the Constitution. The government of Assam opposed the petitioner's views in the case and requested more time to present its opinions.

According to a report from the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Rajasthan, the State has expressed its opposition to the legalization of same-sex marriage, stating that it could cause an imbalance in the social fabric, with far-reaching consequences for the social and family system.

The government circulated letters to all district collectors in the State to gather their opinions, and they agreed that there should not be a provision for same-sex marriages as it goes against public opinion and is not prevalent.

The State further stated that if public opinion were in favor of same-sex marriages, the issue would have been addressed by the State legislature.

The governments of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Manipur, and Sikkim also replied to the Centre's letter but requested more time to provide their views.