Madras High Court orders State to come up with list of words, expressions to address LGBTQIA+ community in dignified way

The Madras High Court has directed the Government of Tamil Nadu to come up with a standardized guide/prospective glossary containing the words and expression to address persons belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community..In this regard, single-judge Justice Anand Venkatesh asked the Additional Advocate General, appearing for State of Tamil Nadu to take into consideration a list of 24 words and expressions suggested by petitioners to address the LGBTQIA + community."At some stage, there must be a beginning where persons belonging to this community are addressed in a more dignified manner. The learned Additional Advocate General shall take note of the words and expressions that have been suggested and it can be forwarded to the Government of Tamil Nadu, facilitating it to come up with a standardized guide/prospective glossary containing the words and expressions," the Court directed.The words include listing and explanation of terms like sex, gender, pansexuality, coming out etc.The Court opined that once the government publishes such a list, it will have “more force” and be easier to implement.Pertinently, the Court also urged media and press to consider using the said list of words and expressions to address the LGBTQIA + community.The Court was hearing a case where it had previously issued several directions in an effort to further the welfare of LGBTQIA+ persons.The case had begun with a plea by a lesbian couple seeking protection from their relatives. Over the course of hearing the matter, the Court passed several directions..“This Court reposes confidence that on the press and media and they will seriously consider the request made by this Court and start implementing the same hence forth,” the order said..It was clarified by the petitioner that the words and expressions specified were illustrative and not exhaustive..The case will be heard again on February 18 with the Court expressing hope that a prospective glossary of words would be placed before the Court by the State during the hearing..[Read Order]