Gay activists told the Times of India Sept. 4 that they expect the government to legalize gay sex later this year.
The gay/AIDS group Naz Foundation is challenging the ban before the Delhi High Court. Same-sex relations (“carnal intercourse against the order of nature”) are punished with up to 10 years in prison.
Some of the foundation’s members were prosecuted under certain provisions of the law last year for handing out safe-sex brochures.
“The sentiments expressed by the judiciary have been very liberal and progressive,” said Naz spokesman Shaleen Rakesh. “The public debate in the media has also vocalized the opinion that two consenting adults should have the right to choose whom they love. Things are finally looking optimistic.”