In a historic move, Nepal has become the first South Asian country to officially register a case of same-sex marriage, five months after the Supreme Court legalized it. Maya Gurung, a 35-year-old trans-woman, and Surendra Pandey, a 27-year-old gay man, legally tied the knot, and their marriage was formally registered at Dordi Rural Municipality in Lamjung district, Western Nepal.
The Supreme Court of Nepal had granted permission for same-sex marriage as early as 2007, and the 2015 Constitution explicitly prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation. The recent registration marks a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the region.
On June 27, 2023, the Supreme Court issued an interim order to legalize same-sex marriage in Nepal, following a writ petition filed by several individuals, including Maya Gurung. However, four months ago, the Kathmandu District Court had rejected the move, citing the absence of necessary laws.
Despite the initial rejection, the recent registration of Surendra Pandey and Maya Gurung’s marriage is celebrated as a historic achievement by the LGBTQ+ community in Nepal. Pinky, the president of the Blue Diamond Society, an organization advocating for the rights of sexual minorities in Nepal, expressed delight at the development. Pinky highlighted that this case sets a precedent not only in Nepal but also across South Asia, opening doors for others in the LGBTQ+ community to legalize their marriages.
The married couple, residing in Nawalparasi and Lamjung districts, had followed traditional marriage customs with the approval of their families. Their temporary registration is seen as a positive step, with expectations that necessary laws will be formulated for permanent recognition in the future.
By PTI
