SEXUAL FREEDOM FOR OUR NEW INDIA

On the eve of the momentous I-Day, FPJ wonders how free are we in reality to define our sexual identities

- ANUPAMA C

 September 6, 2018, will remain a momentous day in the history of India, the Indian LGBTQIA+ community and all Indians who stand for equal rights-it's the day the Supreme Court passed the historical verdict decriminalising homosexuality by partially striking down Section 377. But is that the same as saying our people, especially our youth, are enjoying their right to sexuality (defined as the right to express one's sexuality and orientation and be free from all discrimination)? Are they free to be comfortable in their skin? Are we providing a more accepting space to our queer population today than earlier? Because that would relate to providing equal human rights to people belonging to diverse sexual orientations (hence, equally applicable to heterosexuality) and, more importantly, the protection of these rights, based on the universality of human rights.

Mumbai-based scriptwriter and author of Lean Days, Manish Gaekwad believes that it's high time people realise that "as Lady Gaga says we all are born this way. One fine day, while watching Tip Tip Barsa Paani you realise, even with a lush Raveena Tandon present on-screen, you are ardently following Akshay Kumar's moves. Someone I know... they were watching a football match when they realised that they liked the boy playing the sport more than the game. And when that realisation dawns, you just know your preferences." For Manish, "I had my realisation quite early and at that age, kids tend to be quite cruel to each other, especially the 'different' ones. I was one of the quiet kids, and where were we to go? Today, when I see kids bravely bear markers and sport rainbow colours and jewellery to proclaim their identity, it makes me happy that we are moving towards normalisation."