We have meticulously followed the Indian Supreme Court’s verdict on legally recognizing same-sex marriages. We must express our profound disappointment at the missed opportunity to unequivocally affirm the rights and dignity of the LGBTI+ community in India.  The court’s recognition of the LGBTI+ community’s rights is a positive development, Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, known for his progressive judgment in the decriminalization of Section 377, which decriminalized homosexuality, asserted that it is erroneous to exclusively associate competent parenting with heterosexual couples, a sentiment we applaud.  However, our appreciation is tempered by the court’s reluctance to extend legal recognition to same-sex marriages under the Special Marriage Act. The assertion by Justice Narasimha that the right to marry is statutory, not constitutional, and Justice Bhat’s concurrence that the Act should not be read down to include same-sex marriages, are positions we find deeply unsatisfactory.  The verdict, though a mix of progressive and conservative stances, unfortunately, leans towards the latter, leaving the LGBTQIA+ community in a limbo of partial recognition and incomplete rights. The court’s decision to defer the issue to parliament underscores a hesitancy to assert judicial leadership in safeguarding minority rights.  We are unwavering in our belief in the inherent dignity, rights, and equality of all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation. The verdict falls short of the decisive affirmation of rights that the LGBTI+ community in India deserves and is entitled to.  Our advocacy for the comprehensive legal recognition and societal acceptance of same-sex relationships remains as steadfast as ever. We are committed to ensuring that every individual enjoys the freedom to love and be loved without discrimination. We urge the Indian parliament to rise above societal norms and prejudices and to legislate an inclusive, equitable, and just society where the rights and dignities of all citizens are upheld and protected.  We are committed to continued and intensified advocacy until the full spectrum of rights is unconditionally extended to the LGBTQIA+ community in India. The journey towards equality, dignity, and justice continues. 

IPPF South Asia Regional Office (SARO) is inviting young people from the region (Afghanistan, Iran, Nepal, Bhutan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Maldives) to become part of its South Asia Regional Youth Network (SARYN). SARYN is a youth-led network run by youth volunteers from IPPF’s Member Associations in South Asia dedicated to promoting sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice in the region. The network is supported by Member Associations and IPPF South Asia Regional Office. SARYN shares the core values of IPPF and is committed to the same vision and mission as the Federation. The network aims to ensure coordination and collaboration of regional youth and their networks through the development of a Youth Regional Strategic Plan (Youth RSP) drawing from IPPF Strategy 2023-28, which aims to strengthen youth engagement in the region and within eight countries on themes of SRHR, Abortion rights, Diversity, and Inclusion, this will be in line with IPPF’s Sexual Rights Declaration/ IPPF’s charter. IPPF recognises youth and young professionals as champions, knowledge-holders, and innovators thus, firmly advocating that young people hold the key to sustainable development. IPPF’s SARYN is in response to calls by youth to be more engaged in IPPF’s work, particularly in SRHRJ. Individuals with intersectional identities, including young SOGIESC, people living with HIV and/or disabilities, are strongly encouraged to register. ELIGIBILITY To be eligible, one must be: Aged between 10-24 years. Affiliated to a youth-led or youth-focused organisation/network/movement, volunteer at respective Member Association OR affiliated to a university or college and pursuing courses related to the thematic areas. Able to clearly demonstrate a multiplier effect of being part of the network.  Willing and able to continue engagement and participation that is in virtual and in-person meetings/seminars at respective MAs (at least 4 events). HOW TO JOIN The joining process is done online by completing an e-application form accessible https://forms.office.com/r/bPGs4grGUg