International News

India Needs to Scrap Law Banning Homosexuality

From U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

January 20, 2004

On the sidelines of the World Social Forum in Bombay Sunday, gay rights activist Vivek called on India to throw out the colonial-era law that makes homosexuality punishable by up to seven years in prison. A study by the Humsafar Trust, of which Vivek is CEO, found that 57 percent of 100,000 gay male respondents are having sex with other men even though they are married or have girlfriends. Last year, activists filed a case to repeal the law, but the government said it intends to maintain it. Vivek, who goes by one name, said keeping homosexuality illegal contributes to the spread of HIV and other STDs.

Back to other news for January 20, 2004

Adapted from:
Associated Press
01.18.04; Nellesh Misra

This article was provided by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is a part of the publication CDC HIV/Hepatitis/STD/TB Prevention News Update. Visit the CDC's website to find out more about their activities, publications and services.

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