The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Section 377

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Thursday, Jul 02, 2009
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Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Section 377

This refers to the editorial “Don’t dither on Section 377” (July 1). Sexual preference is a matter of personal choice with biological underpinnings. Gay sex is definitely not against nature as some argue. It is common but people have tried to hide it for fear of being ostracised and punished.

Balaji Bharadwaj,

Kanyakumari

* * *

In this modern era when there is growing awareness on all issues, the LGBTs should be assured a dignified status in society. Section 377 should be amended suitably instead of being repealed, so that freedom is not misused.

A. Sameera Reddy,

Kurnool

* * *

Homosexuality is a way of living. Between two consenting adults — whether of the same sex or not — sex is legal. There is no reason why the rest of the country should feel offended. The only thing that needs to be done is making sure that the behaviour of homosexuals does not disturb their surroundings. The so-called moral brigade should mind its own business and learn to respect the privacy of adults.

Ganapathi Bhat,

Akola

* * *

Sexual preferences stem from a natural desire for a relationship. They cannot be said as being against the order of nature. It is time the gay rights activists and the law-enforcement agency arrived at a better understanding and interpretation of Section 377.

K. Srinivasan,

Chennai

* * *

The reason I do not support the repeal of Section 377 is it has been effective in dealing with child abusers. The government should repeal Section 377 only if it puts in place a law that punishes those abusing children sexually.

Eveleen Sidana,

Chennai

* * *

What I do not understand is the need to display our sexual preferences on the streets. If homosexuality is not a western influence, the tendency to proclaim it is. Or is it the very Indian freedom of expression?

B. Meenu,

Kottayam

* * *

India is a pluralistic country with a rich ethos and culture. Homosexuality is opposed to the nature and culture. A small minority cannot demand that the country recognise its way of life. Any move to decriminalise homosexuality would be an attempt to destroy the family system for the sake of the sexual minorities.

S. Irudaya Selvaraj,

Chennai

* * *

The demand that Section 377 be repealed is alarming. Homosexuality will have a negative impact on society and the traditional family system being followed in India over thousands of years.

T.C. Vijay Kumar,

Bangalore

* * *

There are many issues other than LGBT rights which need to be addressed on a priority basis. All health care facilities should be available to the LGBTs without prejudice — there can be no second opinion on that. But legalising things over which we have no control, including abnormal sexual behaviour, may lead to an increase in the incidents of sexual abuse.

P. Gopala Krishna Kumar,

Hyderabad

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