As a trans man, I see hint of hope in SC verdict on same-sex marriages, says Suchetan Bhattacharjee

A five-judge Constitution Bench, headed by CJI DY Chandrachud, was on October 17 unanimous in refusing to accord legal recognition to same-sex marriage under the Special Marriage Act and observed it is within Parliament’s ambit to change the law for validating such union.

It, however, made an impassioned pitch for granting benefits and privileges that are otherwise available to married couples, to people in same-sex relationships, and steps to ensure they are not discriminated against.

Suchetan Bhattacharjee, who has already changed their name on their YouTube channel, is also currently in the process of legally changing their name. According to them, the apex court’s observations that same-sex couples have the right to enter relationships, should be accorded the right to adopt children and should be protected from harassment and discrimination are major positives. They also welcomed the move to constitute a committee chaired by the Cabinet Secretary for the purpose of defining and elucidating the scope of the entitlements of queer couples who are in union.

“But there’s a long way to go,” Suchetan told News18 referring to the bench’s unanimous refusal to recognise gay marriages.

Having faced discrimination from a young age, Suchetan said they hoped the stigma and taboo around the trans and queer communities, particularly in rural areas, changes for the better someday.

The battle, they said, is a long one.