Let's talk about sex, baby

The homosexual community is worried about which way the wind will blow after the Supreme Courtu00a0sought the centre's stand on the gay sex row. But it's glad there's at least a debate.

City-based advocate B T Venkatesh, who deals with such issues, said it was a beginning for the first time in the history of the Indian penal code, gays and lesbians were being recognised. But, there's a long way to go.

Debate goes on

Referring to the appeal filed by Delhi-based astrologer Suresh Kumar, Venkatesh said that since India was a democracy, anyone could file their objection. "In fact, it is a welcome move as at least some debate has been initiated through this."

He said there were hundreds of queer associations in the country gearing up to approach the SC to legalise the issue. Also, there were a good number of religious heads who had expressed no objection to decrimininalising homosexuality though they objected to legalising it. Hence, there is scope for debate, he said.

The issue's just been unveiled and there is a long way to go , he added.

Meanwhile, joint commissioner of police (crime) Alok Kumar said the police would continue to book cases under Section 377 till they get an official gazette notification from the government abolishing the act. However, the Delhi high court judgment would give the party concerned some respite, he added.