KENDRAPADA: Sprint queen Dutee Chand (27) has voiced disappointment at the Supreme Court's refusal to grant same-sex marriages legal recognition.
In 2019, Dutee came out as lesbian, the first Indian athlete to disclose a same-sex relationship. "I plan to marry my partner Monalisa. But the decision of the apex court has upset all plans. I have been living with Monalisa for five years. We are happy together and as adults, we have every right to make our own decisions. We hope Parliament passes a law allowing same-sex marriages," Dutee said.
Dutee's family, opposed to her relationship, welcomed the SC verdict.
But some others called for Parliament to intercede. Amarbar Biswal, a rights activist in Odisha's Kendrapada, pushed for the law to be amended.
"The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and Special Marriage Act, 1954, recognise heterosexual marriages. But a girl can live with another girl as the Supreme Court scrapped Section 377 in 2018 and police cannot take any legal action against them. It is high time that Parliament amended the laws and allowed lesbian, transgender and gay marriages," said Biswal.
Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, Location Guesser and Mini Crossword. Spread love this holiday season with these Christmas wishes, messages, and quotes.