Madras HC Recognises Queer Chosen Families
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
- ▶
BEFORE: 'Family' in Indian law was strictly interpreted through the lens of heterosexual marriage, blood relations, or adoption, leaving queer relationships legally invisible. NOW: The Madras High Court legally recognized 'chosen families' as a valid familial unit under Article 21, expanding the definition of family beyond marriage.
- ▶
BEFORE: Police frequently sided with natal families in returning adult queer individuals to their homes, often subjecting them to forced 'conversion' rituals or abuse. NOW: The Court issued a writ of continuing mandamus, establishing a positive obligation on the police to protect LGBTQIA+ individuals from their biological families and uphold their personal autonomy.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)With reference to the Madras High Court judgment in M.A. v. Superintendent of Police (2025), consider the following statements: 1. The Court ruled that the right to form a 'chosen family' is protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. 2. The judgment legalized same-sex marriage under the Special Marriage Act to grant family status to the petitioners. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?