'He said, she said': Outlandish arguments, groundbreaking statements from India's same-sex marriage trial

Results from a recent survey on same-sex contradict the claims made by the Bar Council of India (BCI). The survey conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 53 per cent of adult Indians are in favour of legalising same-sex marriage. The results for India challenge the claim made by the Bar Council of India (BCI) that "more than 99.9 per cent of people in the country are opposed to the idea of same-sex marriage".

<h2>India supports same-sex marriage</h2>

Of the 53 per cent in support of same-sex marriage, 28 per cent expressed strong support, while 25 per cent showed moderate support for the idea.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/he-said-she-said-outlandish-arguments-groundbreaking-statements-from-indias-same-sex-marriage-hearing-586946">'He said, she said': Outlandish arguments, groundbreaking statements from India's same-sex marriage hearing</a>

On the other hand, 43 per cent of Indian adults said they 'totally oppose' same-sex marriages, with 31&nbsp;per cent strongly opposing and 12 per cent moderately opposing such unions.

<h2>The Pew Research Center survey&nbsp;</h2>

Pew Research Center's latest survey was conducted in 24 countries across the world. The survey conducted between February 20 and May 22 evaluated how people across the globe viewed same-sex marriage.

It came up with results that&nbsp;can be seen as encouraging for same-sex couples and their advocates in India.

<h2>India and same-sex marriages</h2>

Currently, the issue of the legalisation of same-sex marriages is being deliberated in the Indian Supreme Court; a five-judge bench is hearing the case.&nbsp;However, the Union government has voiced opposition to the legalisation of same-sex marriages, citing cultural and traditional norms.&nbsp;

While homosexuality is legal in India, marriage between two individuals of the same sex is still considered illegal.

As per the Wire, the survey results for India challenge the claim made by the Bar Council of India (BCI) that "more than 99.9 per cent of people in the country are opposed to the idea of same-sex marriage."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/child-rights-activist-says-same-sex-marriage-denies-kids-one-parents-love-585347">Indian child rights activist claims same-sex marriage denies kids one parent's love</a>

Reportedly, the BCI had based its claim on its own survey but had not released any detailed methodology, sample size, or other data points.&nbsp;

The BCI even passed a resolution opposing the legalisation of same-sex marriage and called on the Supreme Court to refrain from adjudicating on the issue, stating that it should be left to the legislative process.

<h2>Global opinion on same-sex marriage</h2>

Globally, the survey revealed that support for legalising same-sex marriage is highest in Sweden, with 92 per cent of adults in favour, and lowest in Nigeria, with only two&nbsp;per cent supporting it.&nbsp;

The survey also examined attitudes across various demographic factors such as age, gender, political ideology, and religious beliefs.

In Western Europe, a strong majority of adults in countries such as Sweden (92 per cent), the Netherlands (89 per cent), Spain (87 per cent), France (82 per cent), and Germany (80 per cent) support same-sex marriage. These countries have already legalised such unions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<img alt="A map and bar chart that shows same-sex marriage attitudes and legality across 24 countries." src="https://www.pewresearch.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/SR_2023.06.14_LGBTQ.global_2.png?w=640" />

Acceptance of same-sex marriage around the world. Image courtesy: Pew Research Centre.

However, in Poland, only 41 per cent of adults support same-sex marriages, while in Hungary, the figure is even lower at 31 per cent. Same-sex marriages are not legal in these countries, and LGBTQ+ rights activists often face state repression.

In North America, 79 per cent of Canadians support same-sex marriage, while the figures stand at 63 per cent in both the United States and Mexico. All three countries have legalised same-sex marriage. In South America, 67 per cent of Argentinians and 52 per cent of Brazilians are in favour. These countries have also legalised same-sex marriage.

In the Asia-Pacific region, approximately three-quarters of adults in Australia (75 per cent) and Japan (74 per cent) support legalising same-sex marriage. While Australia has already legalised it, Japan has yet to do so.&nbsp;

South Korea is currently debating the issue, and 40 per cent of South Koreans support legalising same-sex marriage, while 59 per cent oppose it. Indonesians showed strong opposition, with only five&nbsp;per cent supporting same-sex marriage.

The survey also found that in 12 countries, adults under 40 are more likely than older individuals to support same-sex marriage. Similarly, women in 14 countries expressed more support for legalising same-sex marriage compared to men. In 17 of the surveyed countries, individuals with higher levels of formal education were more likely to support allowing gays and lesbians to marry.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Results from a recent survey on same-sex contradict the claims made by the Bar Council of India (BCI). The survey conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 53 per cent of adult Indians are in favour of legalising same-sex marriage.

Results from a recent survey on same-sex contradict the claims made by the Bar Council of India (BCI). The survey conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 53 per cent of adult Indians are in favour of legalising same-sex marriage. The results for India challenge the claim made by the Bar Council of India (BCI) that "more than 99.9 per cent of people in the country are opposed to the idea of same-sex marriage". India supports same-sex marriage Of the 53 per cent in support of same-sex marriage, 28 per cent expressed strong support, while 25 per cent showed moderate support for the idea. Also read | 'He said, she said': Outlandish arguments, groundbreaking statements from India's same-sex marriage hearing On the other hand, 43 per cent of Indian adults said they 'totally oppose' same-sex marriages, with 31 per cent strongly opposing and 12 per cent moderately opposing such unions. The Pew Research Center survey Pew Research Center's latest survey was conducted in 24 countries across the world. The survey conducted between February 20 and May 22 evaluated how people across the globe viewed same-sex marriage. It came up with results that can be seen as encouraging for same-sex couples and their advocates in India. India and same-sex marriages Currently, the issue of the legalisation of same-sex marriages is being deliberated in the Indian Supreme Court; a five-judge bench is hearing the case. However, the Union government has voiced opposition to the legalisation of same-sex marriages, citing cultural and traditional norms. While homosexuality is legal in India, marriage between two individuals of the same sex is still considered illegal. As per the Wire, the survey results for India challenge the claim made by the Bar Council of India (BCI) that "more than 99.9 per cent of people in the country are opposed to the idea of same-sex marriage." Also read | Indian child rights activist claims same-sex marriage denies kids one parent's love Reportedly, the BCI had based its claim on its own survey but had not released any detailed methodology, sample size, or other data points. The BCI even passed a resolution opposing the legalisation of same-sex marriage and called on the Supreme Court to refrain from adjudicating on the issue, stating that it should be left to the legislative process. Global opinion on same-sex marriage Globally, the survey revealed that support for legalising same-sex marriage is highest in Sweden, with 92 per cent of adults in favour, and lowest in Nigeria, with only two per cent supporting it. The survey also examined attitudes across various demographic factors such as age, gender, political ideology, and religious beliefs. In Western Europe, a strong majority of adults in countries such as Sweden (92 per cent), the Netherlands (89 per cent), Spain (87 per cent), France (82 per cent), and Germany (80 per cent) support same-sex marriage. These countries have already legalised such unions. Acceptance of same-sex marriage around the world. Image courtesy: Pew Research Centre. However, in Poland, only 41 per cent of adults support same-sex marriages, while in Hungary, the figure is even lower at 31 per cent. Same-sex marriages are not legal in these countries, and LGBTQ+ rights activists often face state repression. In North America, 79 per cent of Canadians support same-sex marriage, while the figures stand at 63 per cent in both the United States and Mexico. All three countries have legalised same-sex marriage. In South America, 67 per cent of Argentinians and 52 per cent of Brazilians are in favour. These countries have also legalised same-sex marriage. In the Asia-Pacific region, approximately three-quarters of adults in Australia (75 per cent) and Japan (74 per cent) support legalising same-sex marriage. While Australia has already legalised it, Japan has yet to do so. South Korea is currently debating the issue, and 40 per cent of South Koreans support legalising same-sex marriage, while 59 per cent oppose it. Indonesians showed strong opposition, with only five per cent supporting same-sex marriage. The survey also found that in 12 countries, adults under 40 are more likely than older individuals to support same-sex marriage. Similarly, women in 14 countries expressed more support for legalising same-sex marriage compared to men. In 17 of the surveyed countries, individuals with higher levels of formal education were more likely to support allowing gays and lesbians to marry. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Global survey finds broad acceptance of same-sex marriage in India

As India debates whether same-sex marriage should be allowed legally, a child rights activist has come out against the move, and has said that such marriages will infringe upon the rights of the children and would deprive them of "at least one parent."

Talking to IANS, Kumar V Jahgirdar, founder and president of the Child Rights Initiative for Shared Parenting (CRISP) told IANS that "It is natural for any child to have a natural father and mother," and that with the proposed law India is "heading to the creation of a fatherless or motherless society."

He said that in a same-sex marriage, one person will be 'acting' as though they are "a father or mother respectively," but that in fact a child "raised by a same-sex couple is deprived of at least one parent."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-has-no-data-to-prove-same-sex-marriage-is-an-urban-elitist-concept-says-chief-justice-of-india-584141">Centre has no data to prove same-sex marriage is an urban elitist concept, says Chief Justice of India</a>

He labelled&nbsp;this "a human rights violation that the same-sex marriage movement will never address."

As per Jahgirdar, "this will have a devastating effect on the psychology of the child and is also a violation of child rights as per a UN convention to have two different genders as parents. It is set to become a fashion to speak about LGBTQ rights and nobody is bothered about child rights. The child rights and same sex rights can't go in the same boat."

"I hope the apex court takes this seriously and does not hamper child fundamental rights," he added.

The child rights activist also predicted that "children in same-sex marriage may feel a stigma that may end in drugs or school dropouts or land up in jail as a teenager."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-why-same-sex-couples-in-india-are-seeking-conjugal-rights-when-homosexuality-is-decriminalised-583772">Explained: Why same-sex couples in India are seeking conjugal rights when homosexuality is decriminalised</a>

He further said&nbsp;that if same-sex marriages are awarded a legal status, the "law will be unconstitutional and is not only against Indian social and cultural values but also in violation of basic human rights."

Jahgirdar claimed&nbsp;that the legalisation of same-sex marriages will further add confusion to the Domestic Violence Act that "is meant to protect women against men."

He also said that if the law is passed, rules regarding the custody of the child post-separation or divorce of the parents must be laid out. The custody of children and shared parenting in cases of separation must be ensured, he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As India debates whether same-sex marriage should be allowed legally, a child rights activist has come out against the move, and has said that such marriages will infringe upon the rights of the children and would deprive them of "at least one parent.

As India debates whether same-sex marriage should be allowed legally, a child rights activist has come out against the move, and has said that such marriages will infringe upon the rights of the children and would deprive them of "at least one parent." Talking to IANS, Kumar V Jahgirdar, founder and president of the Child Rights Initiative for Shared Parenting (CRISP) told IANS that "It is natural for any child to have a natural father and mother," and that with the proposed law India is "heading to the creation of a fatherless or motherless society." He said that in a same-sex marriage, one person will be 'acting' as though they are "a father or mother respectively," but that in fact a child "raised by a same-sex couple is deprived of at least one parent." Also read | Centre has no data to prove same-sex marriage is an urban elitist concept, says Chief Justice of India He labelled this "a human rights violation that the same-sex marriage movement will never address." As per Jahgirdar, "this will have a devastating effect on the psychology of the child and is also a violation of child rights as per a UN convention to have two different genders as parents. It is set to become a fashion to speak about LGBTQ rights and nobody is bothered about child rights. The child rights and same sex rights can't go in the same boat." "I hope the apex court takes this seriously and does not hamper child fundamental rights," he added. The child rights activist also predicted that "children in same-sex marriage may feel a stigma that may end in drugs or school dropouts or land up in jail as a teenager." Also read | Explained: Why same-sex couples in India are seeking conjugal rights when homosexuality is decriminalised He further said that if same-sex marriages are awarded a legal status, the "law will be unconstitutional and is not only against Indian social and cultural values but also in violation of basic human rights." Jahgirdar claimed that the legalisation of same-sex marriages will further add confusion to the Domestic Violence Act that "is meant to protect women against men." He also said that if the law is passed, rules regarding the custody of the child post-separation or divorce of the parents must be laid out. The custody of children and shared parenting in cases of separation must be ensured, he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian child rights activist claims same-sex marriage denies kids one parent's love

As India's top court readies to hear a batch of pleas seeking validation for same-sex marriages, the nation's central government has submitted an affidavit opposing the step. The centre in its affidavit reportedly told the Supreme Court (SC) that same-sex relationships and heterosexual relationships are clearly distinct classes which cannot be treated identically.&nbsp;

On Monday (March 13th) the court was scheduled to hear pleas seeking the validation, and this submission comes just a day ahead.&nbsp;A bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala will be presiding over the hearing.

LiveLaw reports that the centre in its affidavit stated that marriage between individuals of opposite sexes is "socially, culturally and legally ingrained into the very idea and concept of marriage and ought not to be disturbed or diluted by judicial interpretation."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strangers-in-the-eyes-of-law-wion-speaks-with-hyderabad-gay-couple-569191">'Strangers in eyes of law': WION speaks with gay couple as India's top court set to hear petitions on marriage</a>

"Living together as partners and having sexual relationship by same-sex individuals is not comparable with the Indian family unit concept of a husband, a wife and children which necessarily presuppose a biological man as a 'husband', a biological woman as a 'wife' and the children born out of the union between the two-who are reared by the biological man as father and the biological&nbsp;woman&nbsp;as&nbsp;mother," it said.

In India, homosexual relationships were decriminalised on 6th September 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-top-court-steps-closer-to-decide-legal-status-of-same-sex-couples-550037">India's top court steps closer to decide legal status of same-sex couples</a>

Pushing for the recognition of only heterosexual marriages, it said that such marriages are "the norm throughout history" and claimed that they are "foundational to both the existence and continuance of the State."

It also claimed that giving legal recognition to same-sex marriages will give rise to complications in matters related to adoption, divorce, maintenance, inheritance, etc.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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As India's top court readies to hear a batch of pleas seeking validation for same-sex marriages, the nation's central government has submitted an affidavit opposing the step.

As India's top court readies to hear a batch of pleas seeking validation for same-sex marriages, the nation's central government has submitted an affidavit opposing the step. The centre in its affidavit reportedly told the Supreme Court (SC) that same-sex relationships and heterosexual relationships are clearly distinct classes which cannot be treated identically. On Monday (March 13th) the court was scheduled to hear pleas seeking the validation, and this submission comes just a day ahead. A bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala will be presiding over the hearing. LiveLaw reports that the centre in its affidavit stated that marriage between individuals of opposite sexes is "socially, culturally and legally ingrained into the very idea and concept of marriage and ought not to be disturbed or diluted by judicial interpretation." Also read | 'Strangers in eyes of law': WION speaks with gay couple as India's top court set to hear petitions on marriage "Living together as partners and having sexual relationship by same-sex individuals is not comparable with the Indian family unit concept of a husband, a wife and children which necessarily presuppose a biological man as a 'husband', a biological woman as a 'wife' and the children born out of the union between the two-who are reared by the biological man as father and the biological woman as mother," it said. In India, homosexual relationships were decriminalised on 6th September 2018. Also read | India's top court steps closer to decide legal status of same-sex couples Pushing for the recognition of only heterosexual marriages, it said that such marriages are "the norm throughout history" and claimed that they are "foundational to both the existence and continuance of the State." It also claimed that giving legal recognition to same-sex marriages will give rise to complications in matters related to adoption, divorce, maintenance, inheritance, etc. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Centre opposes same-sex marriages, says those between a man and a woman 'the norm throughout history'

A Japanese court has ruled that the country's decades-old constitution's definition of marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes" is legal.&nbsp;The Tokyo court, however, added that the country's failure to legally protect same-sex partners creates an "unconstitutional situation".

"The current lack of legal framework that allows same-sex partners to become family is a serious threat and obstacle" to individual dignity and "this creates an unconstitutional situation with regards to clause two of article 24," said the court in its ruling.

Watch |&nbsp;Blow to LGBTQ rights: Japan rules same-sex marriage ban constitutional

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In March of last year, a court in Sapporo made a similar ruling, while an Osaka court ruling from June of this year deemed that a ban on same-sex marriage was constitutional.&nbsp;

Japan remains the only country in the G7 group of nations that does not allow same-sex marriage.

The ruling comes in a case in which eight people (four same-sex couples) had demanded one million yen ($7,208) each in damages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/old-school-japan-recognises-same-sex-relationships-530232">Old-school Japan's progressive Tokyo: City recognises same-sex relationships</a>

Even though their demand for damages was rejected, the group hailed the ruling as "a big step forwards".

Chizuka Oe, one of the plaintiffs, as per Reuters, said "There was progress" adding that even though the "judiciary delegated it to the legislature, I hope that the legislature will actively deliberate about it (same-sex marriage)".

Talking to AFP, another person said that the ruling "went as far as to criticise the lack of a legal system that allows same-sex couples to become family."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-passes-the-respect-for-marriage-act-protecting-same-sex-marriages-know-all-about-it-and-its-history-538761">US Senate passes the Respect for Marriage Act protecting same-sex marriages, know all about it and its history</a>

"But an 'unconstitutional situation' is more nuanced than an outright declaration of unconstitutionality, which is a bit disappointing," they added.

In recent years, Japan which is a country deeply rooted in traditional values has taken small steps towards embracing sexual diversity. Early last month, the country's capital Japan even started issuing partnership certificates to LGBTQ couples. While these certificates do not confer the same legal rights as marriage, it is still a welcome development for couples who previously lacked official documentation of their relationship.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Japanese court has ruled that the country's decades-old constitution's definition of marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes" is legal.

A Japanese court has ruled that the country's decades-old constitution's definition of marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes" is legal. The Tokyo court, however, added that the country's failure to legally protect same-sex partners creates an "unconstitutional situation". "The current lack of legal framework that allows same-sex partners to become family is a serious threat and obstacle" to individual dignity and "this creates an unconstitutional situation with regards to clause two of article 24," said the court in its ruling. Watch | Blow to LGBTQ rights: Japan rules same-sex marriage ban constitutional In March of last year, a court in Sapporo made a similar ruling, while an Osaka court ruling from June of this year deemed that a ban on same-sex marriage was constitutional. Japan remains the only country in the G7 group of nations that does not allow same-sex marriage. The ruling comes in a case in which eight people (four same-sex couples) had demanded one million yen ($7,208) each in damages. Also read | Old-school Japan's progressive Tokyo: City recognises same-sex relationships Even though their demand for damages was rejected, the group hailed the ruling as "a big step forwards". Chizuka Oe, one of the plaintiffs, as per Reuters, said "There was progress" adding that even though the "judiciary delegated it to the legislature, I hope that the legislature will actively deliberate about it (same-sex marriage)". Talking to AFP, another person said that the ruling "went as far as to criticise the lack of a legal system that allows same-sex couples to become family." Also read | US Senate passes the Respect for Marriage Act protecting same-sex marriages, know all about it and its history "But an 'unconstitutional situation' is more nuanced than an outright declaration of unconstitutionality, which is a bit disappointing," they added. In recent years, Japan which is a country deeply rooted in traditional values has taken small steps towards embracing sexual diversity. Early last month, the country's capital Japan even started issuing partnership certificates to LGBTQ couples. While these certificates do not confer the same legal rights as marriage, it is still a welcome development for couples who previously lacked official documentation of their relationship. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tokyo court upholds gay marriage ban, but says same-sex partners face "unconstitutional situation"

The US Senate passed the same-sex marriage protection bill on Tuesday that would protect the federal recognition of same-sex marriage. The measure was taken up in response to apprehensions that the Supreme Court could overturn a 2015 decision that legalised same-sex marriage in all the 50 states of the US. The bill is basically a pre-emptive measure to safeguard the rights of the LGBTQ+ community if the Supreme Court ever acted against the 2015 same-sex marriage decision in the future.

Though it will not bar states from blocking same-sex marriages if the Supreme Court allowed them to do so.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uaes-moon-mission-got-a-new-launch-date-538710">UAE's moon mission got a new launch date</a>

Talking about the bill, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Summer said in a statement, "Today, the long but inexorable march towards greater equality advances&nbsp;forward". He also affirmed that by passing this bill, they are sending out a message to all Americans that they are free to choose who to love, as everyone has a&nbsp;right to dignity and equal treatment under the law.&nbsp;

The legislation now goes back to the House of Representatives, which will approve it and send it to President Joe Biden to sign. The supporters of the bill are hoping&nbsp;to pass it before Republicans take control of the House in January.&nbsp; President Joe Biden reacted to the landmark bill and called it a "bipartisan achievement".&nbsp;

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Today's bipartisan Senate passage of the Respect for Marriage Act proves our nation is on the brink of reaffirming a fundamental truth: love is love. 
 
I look forward to the House passing this legislation and sending it to my desk, where I will proudly sign it into law.
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1597776178458365956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The journey of legalising same-sex marriage dates back to the 1990s when various civil unions existed for same-sex couples but at the federal level, they were denied access&nbsp;to more than 1100 federal rights. The Defense of Marriage Act was then signed into law in 1996 and defined marriage by the federal government as between a man and a woman, which allows states to deny marriage equality.

<h2>What is the Respect for Marriage Act?&nbsp;</h2>

The Respect for Marriage Act is a bipartisan bill passed in the United States Congress to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act. The Respect for Marriage Act codifies marriages and recognises the validity of same-sex and interracial marriages in the United States. The bill was first supported by former President Bill Clinton and then by the&nbsp;administration of former President Barack Obama.&nbsp;

On 26 June 2015, the US Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell vs Hodges case that the 14th Amendment requires all the US&nbsp;states to recognise same-sex marriages. But the future of same-sex marriage in the United States was put back into question recently in 2022 when a&nbsp;concurring opinion by Justice Clarence Thomas in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization argued that the Court "should reconsider" the Obergefell&nbsp;decision.&nbsp;

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Today, the Senate took an historic step forward in Democrats’ fight to defend freedom, dignity and equality. The Respect for Marriage Act will uphold marriage equality under federal law – tearing the bigoted, unconstitutional 'Defense of Marriage Act’ off the books for good.
— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerPelosi/status/1597752455328333824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<h2>How the Respect for Marriage Bill was passed in the Senate?&nbsp;</h2>

This was for the first time that the Republican senators from across the country voted with Democrats on Tuesday with a tally of 61 in favour of the bill and 36 against the&nbsp;bill. Among the 61 supporters of the bill, 12 were Republicans. The new bill officially repeals the Defense of Marriage Act, a 1996 law that defined marriage&nbsp;as existing only between a man and a woman. In 2013, the Supreme Court ruled that the law was unconstitutional.

<h2>Who all are covered under this act?</h2>

The US Supreme Court established national protections for same-sex marriage in 2015's historic Obergefell v Hodges decision. The ruling struck down existing state bans on gay marriage, giving same-sex partners the right to marry across the US and extending them the same legal rights and benefits enjoyed by heterosexual married couples. The recent act covers all same-sex partners — lesbians, and gays, and gives them the right of marriage and contraception.&nbsp;

Though there is one religious exception to this that was emphasised by the Republicans that the non-profit organisations and religious organisations are not bound&nbsp;to provide their support for same-sex marriages.

"I will be supporting the substitute amendment because it will ensure our religious freedoms are upheld and protected, one of the bedrocks of our democracy", said West Virginia Sen. Shelley Moore Capito in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Meet the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCOTUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCOTUS</a> Plaintiffs: Luke Barlowe and Jimmy Meade - <a href="http://t.co/YqcThSgC2W">http://t.co/YqcThSgC2W</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/marriagequality?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#marriagequality</a> <a href="http://t.co/w77jBvs6jr">pic.twitter.com/w77jBvs6jr</a>
— LGBTQ Nation (@lgbtqnation) <a href="https://twitter.com/lgbtqnation/status/592040530701225986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2015</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Which was the first country to legalise same-sex marriage?</h2>

According to Pew Research Center, the first country to legalise same-sex marriage was The Netherlands. In December 2000, the Dutch parliament passed a landmark bill with a tally of 3-1 allowing the practice of marriage, divorce, and child adoption for same-sex couples.&nbsp;The legislation altered a single sentence in the existing civil marriage statute, which now reads, "A marriage can be contracted by two people of different or the same sex".&nbsp;

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Queen Beatrix signed the law to make Netherlands the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2000. They were followed by Belgium and Canada 2 years later. It wasn't for another decade in 2013 that the UK legalised same sex marriage.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LGBTHM22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LGBTHM22</a> <a href="https://t.co/dCZZKWKN8g">pic.twitter.com/dCZZKWKN8g</a>
— LGBT+ in Facilities Management (@LGBTinFM) <a href="https://twitter.com/LGBTinFM/status/1489539313838788610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Politicians from the 1990s have evolved along with the country. However, now a Supreme Court relic Justice Clarence Thomas from the 1990s is questioning&nbsp;the 2015 marriage decision that he opposed. As a result, Republicans and Democrats have joined forces once more to undo what they did in 1996 and ensure marriage is a right for all Americans.

The US Senate passed the same-sex marriage protection bill on Tuesday that would protect the federal recognition of same-sex marriage. The measure was taken up in response to apprehensions that the Supreme Court could overturn a 2015 decision that legalised same-sex marriage in all the 50 states of the US.

The US Senate passed the same-sex marriage protection bill on Tuesday that would protect the federal recognition of same-sex marriage. The measure was taken up in response to apprehensions that the Supreme Court could overturn a 2015 decision that legalised same-sex marriage in all the 50 states of the US. The bill is basically a pre-emptive measure to safeguard the rights of the LGBTQ+ community if the Supreme Court ever acted against the 2015 same-sex marriage decision in the future. Though it will not bar states from blocking same-sex marriages if the Supreme Court allowed them to do so. Also Read | UAE's moon mission got a new launch date Talking about the bill, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Summer said in a statement, "Today, the long but inexorable march towards greater equality advances forward". He also affirmed that by passing this bill, they are sending out a message to all Americans that they are free to choose who to love, as everyone has a right to dignity and equal treatment under the law. The legislation now goes back to the House of Representatives, which will approve it and send it to President Joe Biden to sign. The supporters of the bill are hoping to pass it before Republicans take control of the House in January. President Joe Biden reacted to the landmark bill and called it a "bipartisan achievement". Today's bipartisan Senate passage of the Respect for Marriage Act proves our nation is on the brink of reaffirming a fundamental truth: love is love. I look forward to the House passing this legislation and sending it to my desk, where I will proudly sign it into law. — President Biden (@POTUS) November 30, 2022 × The journey of legalising same-sex marriage dates back to the 1990s when various civil unions existed for same-sex couples but at the federal level, they were denied access to more than 1100 federal rights. The Defense of Marriage Act was then signed into law in 1996 and defined marriage by the federal government as between a man and a woman, which allows states to deny marriage equality. What is the Respect for Marriage Act? The Respect for Marriage Act is a bipartisan bill passed in the United States Congress to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act. The Respect for Marriage Act codifies marriages and recognises the validity of same-sex and interracial marriages in the United States. The bill was first supported by former President Bill Clinton and then by the administration of former President Barack Obama. On 26 June 2015, the US Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell vs Hodges case that the 14th Amendment requires all the US states to recognise same-sex marriages. But the future of same-sex marriage in the United States was put back into question recently in 2022 when a concurring opinion by Justice Clarence Thomas in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization argued that the Court "should reconsider" the Obergefell decision. Today, the Senate took an historic step forward in Democrats’ fight to defend freedom, dignity and equality. The Respect for Marriage Act will uphold marriage equality under federal law – tearing the bigoted, unconstitutional 'Defense of Marriage Act’ off the books for good. — Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) November 30, 2022 × How the Respect for Marriage Bill was passed in the Senate? This was for the first time that the Republican senators from across the country voted with Democrats on Tuesday with a tally of 61 in favour of the bill and 36 against the bill. Among the 61 supporters of the bill, 12 were Republicans. The new bill officially repeals the Defense of Marriage Act, a 1996 law that defined marriage as existing only between a man and a woman. In 2013, the Supreme Court ruled that the law was unconstitutional. Who all are covered under this act? The US Supreme Court established national protections for same-sex marriage in 2015's historic Obergefell v Hodges decision. The ruling struck down existing state bans on gay marriage, giving same-sex partners the right to marry across the US and extending them the same legal rights and benefits enjoyed by heterosexual married couples. The recent act covers all same-sex partners — lesbians, and gays, and gives them the right of marriage and contraception. Though there is one religious exception to this that was emphasised by the Republicans that the non-profit organisations and religious organisations are not bound to provide their support for same-sex marriages. "I will be supporting the substitute amendment because it will ensure our religious freedoms are upheld and protected, one of the bedrocks of our democracy", said West Virginia Sen. Shelley Moore Capito in a statement. Meet the #SCOTUS Plaintiffs: Luke Barlowe and Jimmy Meade - http://t.co/YqcThSgC2W #marriagequality pic.twitter.com/w77jBvs6jr — LGBTQ Nation (@lgbtqnation) April 25, 2015 × Which was the first country to legalise same-sex marriage? According to Pew Research Center, the first country to legalise same-sex marriage was The Netherlands. In December 2000, the Dutch parliament passed a landmark bill with a tally of 3-1 allowing the practice of marriage, divorce, and child adoption for same-sex couples. The legislation altered a single sentence in the existing civil marriage statute, which now reads, "A marriage can be contracted by two people of different or the same sex". Queen Beatrix signed the law to make Netherlands the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2000. They were followed by Belgium and Canada 2 years later. It wasn't for another decade in 2013 that the UK legalised same sex marriage.#LGBTHM22 pic.twitter.com/dCZZKWKN8g — LGBT+ in Facilities Management (@LGBTinFM) February 4, 2022 × Politicians from the 1990s have evolved along with the country. However, now a Supreme Court relic Justice Clarence Thomas from the 1990s is questioning the 2015 marriage decision that he opposed. As a result, Republicans and Democrats have joined forces once more to undo what they did in 1996 and ensure marriage is a right for all Americans.

EXPLAINED: How same-sex marriage in US gets protection through Respect for Marriage Act?

The government of Thailand has approved draft legislation to allow same-sex civil union, a step which could make it the first Asian country to recognize such partnerships once the bill is passed, official sources said on Wednesday.

Apichat, an official of the government spokesperson's office, told EFE that the government approved the Civil Partnership Bill on Tuesday.

The official said no date had been fixed yet for the legislation to be presented in the National Legislative Assembly for debate and approval as the State Council was reviewing its details.

The bill is not expected to face any problems in its passage in the parliament as the country has effectively been under military rule since a coup led by General Prayut Chain-ocha - the current prime minister - on May 22, 2014.

The parliament on Tuesday also approved the legalization of marijuana for medicinal and research purposes, making Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to do so, joining Canada, Australia, Mexico, Brazil and some states of the United States.

Thailand, where all political activities were banned until recently, is set to hold general elections in the first half of 2019.

Prime Minister Prayut has not ruled out contesting the upcoming elections.

The government of Thailand has approved draft legislation to allow same-sex civil union, a step which could make it the first Asian country to recognize such partnerships once the bill is passed, official sources said on Wednesday.

The government of Thailand has approved draft legislation to allow same-sex civil union, a step which could make it the first Asian country to recognize such partnerships once the bill is passed, official sources said on Wednesday. Apichat, an official of the government spokesperson's office, told EFE that the government approved the Civil Partnership Bill on Tuesday. The official said no date had been fixed yet for the legislation to be presented in the National Legislative Assembly for debate and approval as the State Council was reviewing its details. The bill is not expected to face any problems in its passage in the parliament as the country has effectively been under military rule since a coup led by General Prayut Chain-ocha - the current prime minister - on May 22, 2014. The parliament on Tuesday also approved the legalization of marijuana for medicinal and research purposes, making Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to do so, joining Canada, Australia, Mexico, Brazil and some states of the United States. Thailand, where all political activities were banned until recently, is set to hold general elections in the first half of 2019. Prime Minister Prayut has not ruled out contesting the upcoming elections.

Thai government approves bill to legalise same-sex civil union

Despite strong popular support for marriage equality, Australia&#39;s opposition Labor party on Tuesday blocked the plan to hold a national vote on the same-sex marriage bill.&nbsp;

The party ruled out support to hold the national plebiscite in February on same-sex marriages, saying not only was it expensive and divisive, but it could be harmful to those in same-sex relationships and their families by exposing them to questions over the &quot;integrity&quot; of their unions.&nbsp;

&quot;Why should gay Australians be subjected to a different law-making process than any other Australians?&quot; said Labor leader Bill Shorten.

&quot;Why should a couple in a committed relationship have to knock on the doors of 15 million of their fellow Australians and see if they agree with it? The easiest way is the way which this parliament has done for a hundred years:&nbsp;legislate.&quot;

The rejection by the centre-left Labor party to vote on whether to legalise same-sex unions could be a potential blow to conservative Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull&#39;s already waning popularity.&nbsp;

Turnbull&#39;s centre-right coalition government had introduced the bill in Parliament last month. But it required the support of the opposition, as the coalition enjoys only a single-vote majority in the lower house. He has insisted that if the vote was carried, parliament would ensure that gay marriage was legislated, even though the plebiscite would not be binding on parliament.

Debate on gay marriage in Australia has gone on for more than a decade and this move could likely delay it for at least&nbsp;three more years. Turnbull has said that, should the legislation proposing a national vote be rejected, the issue of same-sex marriage would not be reintroduced into parliament until after the next election, which is due in or before November 2019.

Same-sex marriage is supported by 61 per cent of Australians, a Gallop poll in August found, and Turnbull&#39;s inability to deliver the legislation could further damage his support.

&quot;If things don&#39;t turn around by this time next year, and Turnbull&#39;s poll numbers haven&#39;t improved, he will find himself under pressure from within his own party,&quot; said Haydon Manning, an associate professor in political science at Flinders University in Adelaide.

On a two-party preferred basis,&nbsp;where votes for minor parties are redistributed to the two main blocs,&nbsp;the government trails Labor by a margin of 52-48, a Newspoll by The Australian newspaper on Monday showed. Dissatisfaction with Turnbull&#39;s government is at an all-time high of 56 per cent.

(WION with inputs from&nbsp;agencies) 
&nbsp;

Opposition lawmakers claim the bill to put same-sex marriage to a national vote may harm those in same-sex relationships

Despite strong popular support for marriage equality, Australia's opposition Labor party on Tuesday blocked the plan to hold a national vote on the same-sex marriage bill. The party ruled out support to hold the national plebiscite in February on same-sex marriages, saying not only was it expensive and divisive, but it could be harmful to those in same-sex relationships and their families by exposing them to questions over the "integrity" of their unions. "Why should gay Australians be subjected to a different law-making process than any other Australians?" said Labor leader Bill Shorten. "Why should a couple in a committed relationship have to knock on the doors of 15 million of their fellow Australians and see if they agree with it? The easiest way is the way which this parliament has done for a hundred years: legislate." The rejection by the centre-left Labor party to vote on whether to legalise same-sex unions could be a potential blow to conservative Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's already waning popularity. Turnbull's centre-right coalition government had introduced the bill in Parliament last month. But it required the support of the opposition, as the coalition enjoys only a single-vote majority in the lower house. He has insisted that if the vote was carried, parliament would ensure that gay marriage was legislated, even though the plebiscite would not be binding on parliament. Debate on gay marriage in Australia has gone on for more than a decade and this move could likely delay it for at least three more years. Turnbull has said that, should the legislation proposing a national vote be rejected, the issue of same-sex marriage would not be reintroduced into parliament until after the next election, which is due in or before November 2019. Same-sex marriage is supported by 61 per cent of Australians, a Gallop poll in August found, and Turnbull's inability to deliver the legislation could further damage his support. "If things don't turn around by this time next year, and Turnbull's poll numbers haven't improved, he will find himself under pressure from within his own party," said Haydon Manning, an associate professor in political science at Flinders University in Adelaide. On a two-party preferred basis, where votes for minor parties are redistributed to the two main blocs, the government trails Labor by a margin of 52-48, a Newspoll by The Australian newspaper on Monday showed. Dissatisfaction with Turnbull's government is at an all-time high of 56 per cent. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Australia's opposition blocks bill to have country vote on same-sex unions