Around 20,000 members of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community have threatened to go on a hunger strike if Union Health Minister does not issue a public apology on his 'homophobic' comment
Around 20,000 members of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community have threatened to go on a hunger strike if Union Health Minister does not issue a public apology on his 'homophobic' commentu00a0
The apparently homophobic comments made by Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad on 'the disease of MSM being unnatural and not good for India' has invited the ire of activists and LGBT communities across the country.
The LGBT community in the city staged a protest where furious activists and representatives shouted slogans against the minister. Claiming that Azad was ill informed, the activists said they would not stop protesting if he did not take back his comments.
Set the record straight: Members of Karnataka Sexual Minorities Forum
gathered at the Town Hall to protest against the comments made by
Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad yesterday. The group even
demanded the minister's resignation. Pics/Ramesh HSThey further claimed that the entire community, comprising of over 20,000 members in the city, would go on a hunger strike if Azad does not issue a public apology. "It is absolutely unfair and uncalled for. How can a politician issue such a reckless statement?" questioned Melissa Donze, an activist.
Loose tongue?Activists further questioned the basis and timing of this comment, in light of the fourth edition of the National Aids Control Program, which will be initiated soon. "People in senior positions, whose statements are bound to impact public opinion on the matter, should weigh their words. The LGBT community in the country is already struggling to make a firm stand and gain acceptance. Such a statement negates our struggle," said Jess Christian, another activist.
With Section 377 taking shape in the country almost three years ago, the community is furious not only over the statement issued by the minister, but also fears that this comment would make their struggle all the more difficult now.
Huge setback"The existence of this community has been stigmatised for so long and now when our efforts are being mainstreamed, such a comment has left us shocked. It is a huge setback and Azad should have done his homework before making such a blanket statement. He has to issue an apology and withdraw his statement," said Shubha Chacko, an activist.
Amidst slogan chanting, the community vowed not to let this fire that has erupted die down. Akkai, an activist from Sangama claimed to have gathered support from other NGOs across the city to stage an 'undying' protest till the minister gives in. "We will take the legal route if he does not budge from his position." With the entire community in the city coming together at Town Hall and staging an over night protest, it seems like Azad would now have very limited options.
