The Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to acknowledge the Deed of Familial Association as a legal instrument to affirm the rights of same-sex couples and elevate the standing of individuals in such relationships within society. The directive was issued following a petition submitted by a lesbian couple seeking protection from their family members.
Justice N Anand Venkatesh said that such a provision could safeguard the rights of members of the LGBTQIA+ community and ensure that they are able to live without being disturbed or harassed. While undertaking this exercise, this suggestion/proposal given by the petitioner can be taken into consideration and the state can come up with a procedure for registration of such Deed of Familial Association and the scope of such a deed, he said in the order.
It further noted, If that is done, the State will be able to give its stamp of approval to persons who are in a relationship in the community and, to a great extent, this will enhance the status of such persons in the society. This suggestion given by this Court shall be kept in mind while finalising the Policy for LGBTQAI+ community.
Justice N Anand Venkatesh said that such a provision could safeguard the rights of members of the LGBTQIA+ community and ensure that they are able to live without being disturbed or harassed.