Rajasthan, Assam, Andhra Pradesh oppose same-sex marriage law

New Delhi: Assam, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan have opposed the demand for a legalisation on same-sex marriages. These states have conveyed their stance to the central government in response to a letter issued on April 18 seeking views of States and Union Territories on the subject currently being adjudicated on by the Supreme Court.

Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Manipur and Sikkim have sought more time to share their views.

In its letter, the Andhra Pradesh government has said that it consulted the religious heads of various regions who opposed the demand for legalisation on same-sex marriages. Assam has said the legal recognition of same-sex marriages challenges the validity of laws concerning marriage and personal laws enforced in the state.

The Assam government has further said that legislation is the prerogative of the legislature, both at the Centre and in states. In its response, Assam said courts should view matters related to legislation in accordance with the core principles of our democratic structure.

Rajasthan while mentioning a report of the state department of social justice and empowerment, which said "same-sex marriages will create imbalance in the social fabric, leading to far-reaching consequences for the social and family system".

In a related development, the Supreme Court rejected a plea seeking the recusal of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud from adjudicating on petitions seeking legal recognition for same-sex marriages. The CJI is heading the Constitution bench hearing the petitions. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta objected to the plea seeking recusal of the CJI, calling it an "aberration". The Constitution bench will resume the hearing on Thursday.