October 18th 2023.
India's fastest woman sprinter Dutee Chand is in the news again after the Supreme Court refused to legalise same-sex marriages in the country. This has been a huge disappointment to the star Indian athlete, who had been planning to get hitched with her long-time partner Monalisa.
The couple has been together for five years and were eagerly waiting for the SC's decision. They first met during a Khudurkuni puja in her village and were planning to move in together after Dutee completes her BA degree. Despite the SC verdict, Dutee's family has welcomed it as they are not in favour of her relationship.
Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, who was heading the bench pronouncing the verdict, said the court can't make a law and that it is for Parliament to change the Special Marriage Act. This has left the queer community disappointed as they were hoping for a change in laws.
Dutee has been vocal about the SC's decision and has questioned why queer people cannot lead a normal life in India. She said, "We are happy together and as adults, we have every right to make our own decisions. We hope Parliament passes a law allowing same-sex marriages."
The Indian Express quoted her saying, "We are not forcing anyone to be in a relationship with us. We do it by our choice. I think we should also be allowed to lead a life as per our choice. Why can’t we lead a normal life? Several countries have granted recognition to same-sex marriage, why can't India do the same?”
Dutee has been making headlines for the past couple of years for her achievements in sports. Currently, she has been banned for four years on doping charges and is likely to file an appeal against the verdict.
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