DELHI HC DIRECTS DELHI POLICE TO PROVIDE PROTECTION TO A HOMOSEXUAL WOMEN MARRIAGE AGAINST HER WILL

11th March 2021

On Wednesday, the Delhi HC came to rescue a 23 yr old homosexual woman who was forced to marry a man and coerced to continue living in a heterosexual relationship against her wishes, despite her parents being aware of her sexual orientation. Her parents called and informed her that a religious guru would cure her sexual orientation. The petitioner further stated that she immediately informed her husband about her identification as a lesbian; she further said that the marriage was never consummated and expressed her wish to end the marriage as it affected her mental and physical health. Concerned for her safety, she left her matrimonial house and sought assistance from an NGO. The woman approached the Court seeking protection and security from her in-laws and parents. She also sought to protect her right to privacy, equality, autonomy, dignity, and liberty.

The Delhi HC  directed Delhi Police to protect the petitioner, and no NGO member should be harassed for helping the woman.

Author: Papiha Ghoshal

PC: Hindustan times