2018 Landmark Case

Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India

Breaking News: SECTION 377 STRUCK DOWN: LOVE IS NOT A CRIME, SAYS SUPREME COURT!

The Freedom to Love

Case Summary

Decriminalized consensual same-sex relations by striking down part of Section 377.

The Full Story & Context

A group of famous Indians (dancers, chefs, hoteliers) decided to challenge a 150-year-old British law that made their identity a crime. They argued that the Constitution's promise of 'Liberty' applies to everyone, regardless of who they love.

Key Legal Players

  • Bench: 5-Judge Bench
  • Chief Justice: Justice Dipak Misra
  • Lead Counsel: Mukul Rohatgi

The Verdict

Sexual orientation is biological. Discrimination on this basis is unconstitutional. History owes an apology to the LGBTQ community.

Legal & Democratic Impact

It was a massive victory for human rights. It moved India toward a more inclusive society.

Simple Analogy

It's like realizing that a very old, dusty rule in the library was actually hurting people's freedom to read what they like.