Religious leaders in Bangalore condemn gay sex

Bangalore, July 19 (ANI): Religious leaders have asked the government not to leagalise gay sex after a recent court verdict that decriminalised homosexuality in India.

Harminder Singh, a Sikh leader said his community would not allow gay marriages.

"Guru Granth Sahib recognises only two sexes, male and female. So, we Sikhs are saying no to gay sex. We are not going to allow gay sex or marriages in Sikh religion," said Singh.

Uttam Chand Jain, belonging to Jain community also echoed the same sentiments urging the government not to legalise gay sex.

"God has created a man and a woman for each other. Many in India did not know anything about gay community till the court order. Being a member of Jain community, I'm totally against this. Our community is urging the government not to have such legislation," said Jain.

In a landmark verdict on July 2, the Delhi High Court legalized the homosexual behavior of consensual youths, which faced opposition from the religious leaders.

It was earlier a criminal offence under Section 377 of Indian Penal Code (IPC).

On July 9, a two-judge Bench of the Supreme Court comprising Chief Justice K. G. Balkrishnan and Justice P Sathasivam issued notice to the Union Government to explain its stand on a petition challenging the Delhi High Court's ruling.

The apex court posted the matter for hearing on July 20.

The bench said that any interim order against the High Court verdict, if necessary, would be considered only after hearing the parties concerned.

The bench also said they would hear the opinions of all the parties concerned before giving any interim order in this matter.

The apex court was hearing a plea filed by Suresh Kumar Kaushal, an astrologer. Notices were also issued to NAZ Foundation, and other respondents who were parties before the Delhi High Court. (ANI)