Why disengagement with naysayers on LGBT rights will alienate the community further

With fervour and excitement Section 377 was discussed and debated across news and social platforms on September 6 and several voices on social media called for a boycott of those whose intolerance was a little too loud, from the entire spectrum of society, by television channels. 

The rationale put forth was that the Supreme Court has ruled and thrown the 'homosexuality is criminal' parts of Section 377 into a bin, where it rightly belongs, and that should be the end of it. 

But the bitter truth is, in a world that is not utopian, that is not the end of it. Those harbouring that sentiment do not factor in the larger scenario: that this is perhaps the beginning of the road. Decriminalizing homosexuality is monumental. And it's a day for celebrations of mammoth proportions where most members from the LGBT community and allies wouldn't want the sweet victory to be marred by the negativity naysayers are bringing in. But legal sanction for homosexuality, while opening many doors for the community, still cannot unilaterally remove the social stigma faced.

Despite the unanimous verdict by the five-judge bench ruling in favour of decriminalisation of homosexuality, for acceptance in society, mindsets have to change. And that could be the steeper climb.

READ | As India Rejects Section 377 And Legalises Gay Sex, Here's Arnab Goswami's Take On It

Vocal critics who continue using unparliamentary language against the LGBT community are part of the same society that queers have to continue living in, and living seamlessly. The final goal is to ensure that discrimination on basis of someone's gender and sexual choices ends- let's not lose sight of that. 

And for that result to be attained, it is important to continue engaging with and drub those in society who still insist on holding on to archaic positions. And many amongst this lot give it a religious colour to elude from a coherent, lucid debate where they might be forced to see reason. 

But there's no escaping from citizens with this outlook; we may see some of the more vehement ones of television channels but the others could be anywhere; in your building, travelling in a bus with you or even in your family. And even at the cost of a few unpleasant altercations, discourse is important if complete assimilation has to be achieved. 

Many in society might still be wavering about how they feel about several issues regarding LGBT community and it’s the fence-sitters whose opinions can be swayed if we do not engage with venom-spewing, frothing religious leaders who spread misinformation and animosity. Busting myths about homosexuality is pivotal; balderdash like AIDS is spread because of homosexuals or that it is a disease that can be cured with Yoga need to be not just scorned at but disproved and the society should start attaching a stigma against those who think so. Mindset regarding what is 'natural' and what is not needed to be changed.

And for all this to happen, despite the finality of the SC's stupendous verdict, the battle goes on, in living rooms, in workspaces, in community centres and in TV studios too. Those self-professed liberals who question the need for LGBT community to be open about their choices need to be called out and shamed too. 

The debate regarding the legality is settled. But the debate surrounding no-discrimination needs to also be dealt with. The road ahead for same-sex marriage and adoption rights for homosexuals, amongst other things, will be fought bravely, and the role of allies in these battles will be imperative.

READ | EXCLUSIVE | India Rejects Section 377: LGBTQ Activist Sonal Giani Talks About The Supreme Court's Verdict On Section 377

(The views expressed above are the author's)