Activists warn that the BNS could have negative consequences for the LGBTQ community on International LGBT Pride Day.

Bhubaneswar: With the implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita from July 1, the LGBTQIA++ community in the city is expressing concerns about the potential increase in sexual assault cases against its members. According to activist Amit Bisoi, the new law does not include Section 377 or any other law that specifically addresses rape against men and transgender individuals. This is alarming, as Section 377 had previously protected consensual same-sex relationships, as well as cases of rape against animals and transgender and non-binary persons. Without this protection, Bisoi believes that instances of sexual assault against the community will only rise in India.

On the eve of International LGBTQ Pride Day, Bisoi spoke to Orissa POST and highlighted the need for a more inclusive and supportive environment for the LGBTQIA++ community in the state. He emphasized the importance of creating facilities such as gender-neutral toilets and providing assistance for medical procedures like Hormone Replacement Therapy and Sex Reassignment Surgery. Bisoi also stressed the need for strong action against harassment faced by community members.

Fellow activist Samikshya Behera, a trans woman and state government employee, echoed Bisoi's demands for an inclusive society. She emphasized the need for equal opportunities and rights for all genders, including the LGBTQIA++ community. Rupak Das, another LGBTQ activist, further called for a discrimination-free society and a progressive new law specifically catered to the needs of the community.

Trans woman Asisha Behera shared a message of empowerment and unity for the community. She called for LGBTQIA++ individuals to be proud of who they are and to work together to move the community forward. The Odisha government has taken steps towards this by providing job opportunities for transgender individuals under various government schemes, but there is still much more to be done.

As the new governments take office in both the state and at the Centre, Bisoi has a strong message for them. He reminds them that the LGBTQIA++ community is not just a few lines in their manifestos, but a group of underprivileged and marginalized individuals who deserve equal opportunities and rights. He urges the government to prioritize LGBTQIA++ issues in public forums, just like any other important issue. This sentiment is especially important on International LGBTQ Pride Day, which is celebrated on June 28 to commemorate the Stonewall riots and the start of the modern LGBT rights movement.

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