Bill to Decriminalise Gay Sex Rejected by ‘Intolerants’: Tharoor

Tharoor says he is surprised by the ‘intolerance’ in the ruling party.

After the bill was rejected, Shashi Tharoor lashed out at those who rejected it calling them intolerant. (Photo: PTI/The Quint)

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor had introduced a bill in the Lower House to decriminalise consensual sex between consenting adults. The bill was voted down by 71 MPs and supported by 24 MPs.

Tharoor introduced the amendment bill to 377 but he was snubbed by the Chair, Ramen Deka, and the House members as well. Another MP NK Premchandran tried to speak in support of the amendment. However, he was snubbed as well. (Also Read on The Quint: Shashi Tharoor on Three Laws for a More Liberal India)

Tharoor’s Legislative Plan

• Redefine the 1870 “sedition” law to include only words and actions that are a direct incitement to violence.
  
• Introduce a refugee and asylum law that will reflect the leading role India has played in sheltering those fleeing persecution.
  
• Amend Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalises consensual sexual acts between consenting adults.

Tharoor slammed the naysayers and called them intolerant.