Hyderabad: Hyderabad Queer Swabhimana Pride held on Sunday was dedicated to the memories of Rohith Vemula, Gauri Lankesh, Nisha, Tara and others who lost their lives to violence. The march was attended widely by sexual and gender minorities who demanded equal fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
An important demand was to repeal Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code as it ‘criminalises the act of consensual love between adults, regardless of sex’. The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) judgment, treated as a landmark, was also asked to be immediately implemented so that there will be reservation in admission to educational institutions and jobs.
Sensitisation about issues faced by minorities in educational institutions and workplaces were also sought to ensure acceptance and inclusion of people. The Telugu film industry was also shamed for making derogatory narratives, mocking sexual and gender minorities.
An anti discriminatory act was also demanded so that physical, sexual and verbal assaults faced by the minor community will get questioned.
