A STUDY OF PSYCHOSOCIAL CONSEQUENCES OF THE REPEAL OF SECTION 377 ON THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY

Abstract

Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code criminalized consensual same-sex relationships for more than a century, contributing to stigma, discrimination, and psychological distress among LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2018, the Supreme Court of India repealed this provision, recognizing the rights to dignity, equality, and privacy of sexual minorities. The present study aims to examine the psychosocial consequences of the repeal of Section 377 on the LGBTQ+ community in India. A descriptive and exploratory research design was adopted. Data were collected from LGBTQ+ individuals using questionnaires and interviews focusing on mental health, self-esteem, identity, and social acceptance. The findings indicate that the repeal has positively influenced self-acceptance, reduced fear of legal persecution, and improved psychological well-being. However, the study also reveals that social stigma, family rejection, and discrimination continue to affect the community. The study concludes that while legal reform is a crucial step toward inclusion, sustained social change and mental health interventions are essential to ensure holistic well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, a colonial-era law, criminalized consensual same-sex relationships for over a century, resulting in widespread stigma, discrimination, and adverse psychological consequences for the LGBTQ+ community. The historic judgment of the Supreme Court of India in 2018, which repealed Section 377 insofar as it criminalized consensual adult same-sex relations, marked a significant legal and symbolic shift toward equality, dignity, and human rights. The present study aims to examine the psychosocial consequences of the repeal of Section 377 on the LGBTQ+ community in India, with specific focus on changes in self-identity, self-esteem, psychological well-being, perceived social acceptance, and continuing experiences of discrimination. A descriptive and exploratory research design was employed, using quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews with LGBTQ+ individuals aged 18 years and above. The findings reveal that the repeal has contributed to improved self-acceptance, reduced fear of legal persecution, and enhanced psychological well-being among many participants. Legal recognition also fostered a sense of validation and legitimacy of identity. However, the study also highlights that despite decriminalization, social stigma, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and mental health challenges persist. The results suggest a clear gap between legal reform and social acceptance. The study concludes that while the repeal of Section 377 has had a positive psychosocial impact, sustained social sensitization, inclusive policies, and accessible mental health interventions are essential to ensure comprehensive well-being and social inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community.