Gays in Mumbai protest social discrimination

Mumbai, Aug 17: Gay activists hit the streets of Mumbai to protest against social discrimination. Sexual minorities, comprising lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transvestites (LGBT) who identify themselves with gays participated in the protest. Many members of non-government organisations and human rights groups also joined the protesters, besides their family members and friends, to support their cause.

"We are still bound by British Raj law which criminalizes homosexuality. The British introduced the law. There is never a history of homophobia or any law against homosexuals in this country. It was only when the British came that this law was introduced, Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. After so many years when the British have quit India this law is still here. We want this law also to quit India," said Nitin Karani, an organiser.

Bollywood actor Celina Jaitley's presence gave a fillip to the protest.

"India is the largest democracy in the world. In this democracy, gay people should have the right to express their feelings. I am also here for the amendment of Article 377 in the Constitution, I request the Government to pay attention to this," said Celina. The sexually marginalized community feels Indian society continues to stigmatize transgender, gay, lesbian and bisexual people and that Section 377, IPC is archaic and abusive towards their existence as normal human beings.

ANI