Consensual relationships between adults are not a crime
In one line
Consensual sexual relations between adults in private are no longer a crime.
What happened
A group of petitioners challenged Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which made consensual same-sex relations a crime.
What the court decided
- Section 377 was read down: it no longer applies to consensual acts between adults in private.
- The 2013 judgment that had upheld Section 377 was overruled.
- Non-consensual acts and acts involving minors remained offences.
What it means for you
- Adults cannot be prosecuted for a consensual private relationship.
- Dignity, privacy and equality apply to everyone.
- Harassment or blackmail can be reported to the police.
Source: Judgment of the Supreme Court of India in Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India, decided on 6 Sept 2018.
This summary is general information, not legal advice for your situation. Laws change; talk to an advocate before acting.
