RSS on LGBTQ+ community has once again come into focus after Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale said that LGBTQ+ individuals have always been a part of Indian society and that Indian traditions recognise the existence of diverse communities. His remarks come amid continuing public discussions on LGBTQ+ rights, social inclusion and legal recognition in India.
Hosabale reiterated that the organisation supports the decriminalisation of same-sex relationships, while maintaining its previously stated position of caution regarding the legal recognition of same-sex marriage.
RSS on LGBTQ+ Community: Remarks Emphasise Social Acceptance
Speaking on the issue, Hosabale said LGBTQ+ individuals are not a new phenomenon and have existed throughout India’s history and cultural traditions.
According to his remarks, Indian society has historically acknowledged different identities and communities, and discussions on the subject should take place with sensitivity and mutual respect.
The comments add to earlier statements by RSS leaders that have distinguished between acceptance of individuals and the organisation’s views on broader legal and policy questions.
Support for Decriminalisation Reiterated
Hosabale reaffirmed that the RSS supports the decriminalisation of consensual same-sex relationships, a position the organisation has expressed in previous years.
In 2018, the Supreme Court of India, through its landmark judgment in Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India, read down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code to decriminalise consensual same-sex relations between adults, recognising constitutional rights to dignity, equality and privacy.
The RSS has previously stated that consensual relationships between adults should not be treated as criminal offences.
Cautious Stand on Same-Sex Marriage
While expressing acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals as members of society, Hosabale reiterated that the organisation remains cautious regarding the legal recognition of same-sex marriage.
The issue has been the subject of extensive legal and public debate in recent years. In October 2023, a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court declined to legalise same-sex marriage, observing that any such change falls within the domain of Parliament rather than the judiciary.
The Court, however, emphasised that LGBTQ+ individuals are entitled to equal dignity and protection under the Constitution.
Information on laws and legislative developments in India is available through the Ministry of Law and Justice
Indian Traditions and Cultural Context
Hosabale’s remarks also highlighted the view that Indian civilisation has historically recognised diverse identities in various social, cultural and religious contexts.
Scholars have often pointed to references in ancient Indian literature, mythology and historical records that depict gender and sexual diversity, although interpretations of these texts differ among historians and researchers.
The RSS leader suggested that discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ issues should consider India’s own cultural and civilisational traditions alongside contemporary legal developments.
Continuing Debate on LGBTQ+ Rights
The discussion around LGBTQ+ rights in India extends beyond decriminalisation and includes issues such as:
- Legal recognition of relationships
- Anti-discrimination protections
- Adoption and family rights
- Workplace inclusion
- Access to healthcare
- Social acceptance
Civil society organisations, legal experts and policymakers continue to debate these issues as public awareness evolves.
Reactions Expected Across Society
Public remarks by leaders of influential organisations often generate discussion among political parties, advocacy groups and the wider public.
Supporters may view such statements as contributing to broader conversations on inclusion and social acceptance, while others may continue to advocate for additional legal reforms concerning marriage, adoption and other rights.
As with many social issues, opinions remain diverse across different sections of society.
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Final Takeaway
The latest RSS on LGBTQ+ community remarks by General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale reaffirm the organisation’s position that LGBTQ+ individuals have always been part of Indian society and should not be criminalised. At the same time, the RSS continues to maintain a cautious stance on the issue of same-sex marriage. The comments come as conversations around equality, legal rights and social inclusion continue across India, with future policy decisions remaining a matter for democratic institutions and lawmakers.
