Indradhanu
Queer social club in India
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Indradhanu is the official LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual+) collective of Indian Institute of Technology Delhi.[3] The student-driven collective aims to create a safe space for LGBTQIA+ persons in the institute's campus.[4][5] Members from Indradhanu have also been petitioners in the decriminalisation of homosexuality in India. In December 2021, it was accorded official recognition by the college administration. It now holds a nominated position in the Student Affairs Council of IIT Delhi and works with the office of Diversity and Inclusion, IIT Delhi.[6]
History
The support group started from 23 January 2013, by Kapil. [2][7] Kapil used his representation in his course group to inform more students and soon developed into a collective to create a safer space for students belonging to sexual minority groups.[8][2]
According to a survey conducted in IIT Delhi in 2015, around 72% of the respondents "believe homosexuality is as normal as heterosexuality".[9]
Involvement in decriminalisation of homosexuality in India
In May 2018, the collective with support of Naz Foundation filed a petition to review Section 377. The petition was filed by a team of 20 IITians, the youngest of whom was an undergraduate student at IIT Delhi. In response of the petition, the Supreme Court agreed to review[10] after the central government declared that it would not oppose the petitions, and would leave the case "to the wisdom of the court".[11]
On 6 September 2018, the Court overruled an earlier decision from 2013, thereby decriminalising homosexuality in India.[12] After the verdict, the collective gained an established recognition.[3]
Gallery
Members of Indradhanu
Indradhanu at the IIT-Delhi Pride March
Members with posters
