Chennai: The Madras High Court ordered the State government and Central officials to draw up plans for sweeping reforms to respect LGBT rights.
Justice Anand Venkatesh ruled in favour of a couple, who had complained that police had subjected them to harassing questioning after their parents filed a missing persons report.
The court ordered strict action against those found to be indulging in attempts to ‘cure or change’ the sexual orientation by physical and mental health professionals.
“I strongly feel that the change must take place at a societal level and when it is complemented by a law there will be a remarkable change in the outlook of the society by recognising same-sex relationships,” Justice Anand Venkatesh said.
He observed that legislative changes were needed to eradicate social discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community to ensure their life and dignity.
The judge however added, that till the time such legislations are implemented, the community cannot be ‘left in a vulnerable atmosphere’, and thus listed a number of guidelines for various institutions, including the judiciary and police.