Homosexuality in India

Homosexuality has  always been there. It was there when civilization first started, it was there when fire was discovered and it was also there when religious texts were written down; labeling it as a sin. But what is new is the approach towards it. And here, by "people" I mean the non-trans-gender people. It is only they that claim homosexuality to be a sin and unnatural. It is because no one knows the sufferings that is imposed on the gay minorities by society ; other than the homosexuals themselves. Recently, a lot of countries have decriminalized gay sex; but government and laws alone cannot do anything. It is the common people's mindset which needs to be changed. In India, the approach towards homosexuality is still on the negative side. Major part of the Indian society considers it as a taboo.But the big question is WHY? Every mindset has a reason for it. No one simply believes in anything without a cause. Even an assassin has a belief and reason to why he kills. So let us look into the reasons why Homosexuality is still considered a taboo in India.

ILLITERACY
A large part of the Indian population is illiterate The picture here from wikipedia gives a brief view of the low literacy rate in the various states.With illiteracy comes ignorance. Most Indians are not aware of the basic facts and scientific findings regarding homosexuality. Homosexuality is run in heredity, at least partially. A research was made and discovered that of two twins one can be gay. So the concept of people born this way, doesn't hold good. But again one's sexuality is not one's own choice.For an evolutionary biologist, homosexuality is something of a puzzle. It’s a common trait, found in up to 10% of the population.

Researchers at the National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS) says  it’s not written in our DNA sequence itself, but  in certain modifications to how and when DNA is activated.
 Here is the full link to their post regarding the findings of the bases of Homosexuality.

RELIGION
It is the most important incentive for homophobia. Most religions have an anti homosexual view. Let us look at them individually.
                                            Hinduism:  Hinduism is the largest practiced religion of India. Rigveda, one of the four canonical sacred texts of Hinduism says Vikriti Evam Prakriti (Sanskrit: विकृतिः एवम्‌ प्रकृति) . Which, according to some modern historians translates to "what is unnatural is also natural". A supposed indication of homosexuality being normal. However, still a major part of Hindus believe homosexuality is a disease. So acceptance -Yes.Approval- No.
                                             Islam: I don't think I need to say anything about Islam. It is already quite evident. Approval-No. Acceptance- No.

The other minor religions' thoughts vary from milieu to milieu, but mostly lean towards negative.

CUSTOMS AND SUPERSTITIONS

Customs and superstitions too, however small, have a role in this. Most people think homosexuality is unnatural, simply because their parents think so. They are too lazy to investigate if it is true or not in scientific terms.

In general I think this video pretty much sums it up. It isn't made by me, but the interview reflects a lot.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HgC8jK3fhw&feature=youtu.be

IGNORANCE
Though this comes along with illiteracy, some literate people are ignorant too. The section 337 in Indian penal code which criminalize  any unnatural sexual act, was removed from the constitution after protests from LGBT and social activist communities. This is a huge step on part of the government. But it is pretty sad that most people still are unaware of that. If people are unaware of important laws like this, how can they be aware of the sophisticated biological causes of homosexuality? And then they scream it is unnatural.

Everyday homosexuals are burnt or forced to commit suicide in  remote rural areas. No media can cover that,and no law can change that. We need awareness. In masses. Let's make India free from selective sexual preferences. For we deserve the freedom of sexuality as much as the freedom of secularity. Change your views. It can change someone's life!