The march hoped to send a message for the repeal of IPC Section 377 that criminalizes homosexuality.
Around 300 members and supporters of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community took part in Bengaluru's sixth annual Gay Pride parade today.
The march hoped to send a message for the repeal of Indian Penal Code's Section 377 that criminalizes homosexuality, said one of the organizers, Akkai. (
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In December 2013, the Supreme Court had set aside a Delhi High Court judgment decriminalising gay sex and left it to the Parliament to take a decision on amending the law. The NDA government has so far been silent on the issue.
"We are not criminals - and should not be treated as such," said one participant, wearing colourful spikes on his head, high heels and a T-shirt proclaiming he was 'Lad Gaga.'
A young woman said this was one time of the year where she could openly talk about who she was.
The rally, which started at the crowded city railway station ended at the Malleswaram Grounds around 4 km away.
The Gay Pride Parade has been an annual feature in the city since 2008.
The onlookers, though, did not appear to be very aware of the matter. Most of those the NDTV spoke to said they did not know what it was all about. But the participants said the fact that people were asking questions could lead to greater understanding and acceptance.