Menaka Guruswamy makes history as India’s first openly queer MP

In a historic moment for Indian politics, Senior Advocate Menaka Guruswamy took oath today to become a Member of Parliament for the first time in Rajya Sabha, becoming the country’s first openly queer MP.

Guruswamy, a renowned constitutional law expert, played a pivotal role in the landmark 2018 Supreme Court judgment that decriminalised homosexuality, a ruling that transformed LGBTQ+ rights in India.

Her entry into Parliament is widely being seen as a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in Indian politics, highlighting the growing visibility and acceptance of queer voices in governance.


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Guruswamy’s legal expertise and advocacy for social justice are expected to bring a fresh perspective to legislative debates and policymaking.

Colleagues and activists have lauded her achievement, describing it as a “moment of pride and progress” for the LGBTQ+ community, and an inspiration for aspiring queer leaders across the country.