India’s Saurabh Kirpal could be the first gay judge in a constitutional court if his recommendation is accepted

Advocate Saurabh Kirpal, who as a lawyer fought for decriminalising homosexuality and legalising gay marriages in India, will soon be the country’s first out gay judge, if his appointment is approved.

Chief Justice of India, N V Ramana headed bench of Supreme Court gave its approval for the elevation of advocate Saurabh Kirpal, an openly gay person, as a judge of the Delhi High Court.

On 11 November 2021, the Supreme Court Collegium in India, recommended Saurabh Kirpal be appointed as a judge of the Delhi High Court. If accepted, Saurabh Kirpal would be the first openly gay judge in India.

What people are saying?

Farhan Akhtar Historic day as the Supreme Court collegium has picked Saurabh Kirpal to be the Judge of Delhi High Court. It is a massive step forward in sensitising minds to focus on merit and not on sexual orientation. What is a first today should hopefully be norm tomorrow. Kudos.

Gargi Rawat In the past it’s said the recommendation for his elevation to the Court was put in limbo because there were objections due to his sexual orientation. Also many hide orientation for precisely this reason. So should be mentioned.