Odisha man 'marries' transwoman with wife's consent; no legal sanction

BHUBANESWAR: A married man's secret love for a transwoman in Kalahandi, received the stamp of approval from his wife, who gave him permission to 'marry' her and even stay under the same roof.
The 32-year-old man, father of a two-year old son, was in love with the transwoman for the past one year. His wife after discovering his secret, accepted the hard reality and happily agreed to accept the 'marriage' and stay together, although it has no legal sanctions.
The 'marriage' was solemnised at a temple in Narla in a modest function in the presence of several members of trans-community.
Sebakari Kinnar Mahasangha president Kamini took the lead to organise the wedding of the duo. It was a rare day for the trans community with a man having a child and wife, deciding to enter into wedlock with a trans-woman, who he loved.
"We are all happy for both and wish them a prosperous life in future," Kamini told TOI over telephone, being conscious of the fact that in Hindu marriage unless the first one is legally dissolved, second marriage is not legal.
"It was the wish of both partners and consent of the wife leading to this rare 'marriage'. All members of the transgender community also asked them time and again whether they have second thoughts. We also went to the police station to keep them informed in writing, but they said they had little to do with the matter," Kamini added.
Inspector in-charge (Narla police station) Gangadhar Meher said, "If a complaint regarding any such event (transgender marriage) is made by any aggrieved party, then we will proceed as per law."
Trilochan Nanda, a senior lawyer, who practices in Orissa high court said unless the first marriage is dissolved as per law, the second marriage can't be legal. "Such relationships can either be called live-in or extra-marital, even if they stay as wife and husband. It can't be called a marriage," he clarified.
But the newlywed couple said they were not bothered about laws. "All three of us are happy and wish to remain that way," the man, who did not wish to be identified, said.