Nepal First South Asian Nation For Same-Sex Marriages
In a groundbreaking development, Nepal has officially registered its first same-sex marriage, marking a significant milestone in the country's journey towards inclusivity and equal rights. The journey towards this historic moment began in 2007 when Nepal's Supreme Court first allowed same-sex marriage, and it has now come to fruition in 2023.
The Landmark Case:
The recent case involves the legal union of trans woman Maya Gurung, aged 35, and Surendra Pandey, a 27-year-old gay man. The couple, who have been living together as husband and wife for the past six years, had their marriage officially registered at Dordi Rural Municipality in Lamjung district, Western Nepal. This achievement positions Nepal as the first South Asian country to recognize same-sex marriages.
Legal Foundation:
The legal foundation for this historic decision was laid down in Nepal's Constitution, adopted in 2015, which explicitly prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation. The Supreme Court's interim order issued on June 27, 2023, further solidified this stance by legalizing same-sex marriage. However, this triumph was not without challenges, as the Kathmandu District Court rejected the move four months ago, citing a lack of necessary laws.
The Faces Behind the Victory:
Leading the charge for LGBTQ+ rights in Nepal is the Blue Diamond Society, an organization dedicated to championing the rights and welfare of sexual minorities in the country. Sanjib Gurung, also known as Pinky and the president of the Blue Diamond Society, played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this groundbreaking case.
Expressing immense joy, Pinky remarked, “It's a great pleasure to learn about this; it is a great achievement for us, the third-gender community of Nepal.” Not only is this a monumental moment for Nepal, but it also sets a precedent for the entire South Asian region. Pinky emphasized the positive impact this decision would have on other third-gender couples, stating, “There are many third-gender couples living without their identities and rights, and this is going to help them a lot.”
While Surendra Pandey and Maya Gurung's marriage has been temporarily registered, the hope is that, with the formulation of necessary laws, it will receive permanent recognition automatically. This historic milestone not only celebrates love and equality but also opens the door for countless others within the LGBTQ+ community to have their marriages legally recognized.
Nepal's journey towards embracing and legalizing same-sex marriage reflects a commitment to equality and human rights. The recent registration of the first same-sex marriage is a testament to the progress made over the years and serves as an inspiration for other nations in the region to follow suit. As Nepal paves the way for inclusivity, it sends a powerful message that love knows no boundaries, and everyone deserves the right to celebrate their union, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
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