NHRC member for 'suitable modification' in section 377, IPC

NEW DELHI: National Human Rights Commission ( NHRC) member SC Sinha today pitched for a "suitable modification" in section 377 of the Indian Penal Code ( IPC) that criminalises consensual sexual acts between members of the same sex.

Delivering a lecture at Amity University, Sinha stressed on "consensus" as a way forward in modifying the contentious provision.

He expressed hope that all the sections of the society will work towards ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their sexual orientation and gender identity, will be treated as equals, the NHRC said in a statement.

Sinha was addressing a seminar on 'Denial of Right to Life & Dignity of Transgender: The Dark Side of Shining India' at the Noida-based university.

The meaning and content of fundamental rights, guaranteed in the Constitution, encompasses all the facets of gender equality, "including same-sex relations", he said.

Sinha said his contention was "in line" with NHRC's public stand that section 377, IPC should be suitably modified to achieve the above object.