Story perspectives

Menaka Guruswamy: India’s First Openly Queer MP

3/16/2026

Center

Guruswamy Champions Equality

Menaka Guruswamy becomes India's first openly queer member of parliament, representing West Bengal in the Rajya Sabha.
The renowned constitutional lawyer aims to advocate for equality, fraternity, and non-discrimination.
Her election reflects the Trinamool Congress's plan to increase women's representation, as five of its 13 Rajya Sabha MPs are women.
Activists see it as a catalyst for LGBTQ+ rights discussions and reforms in India, including marriage equality.

History

Bhumika Shrestha Makes History

On March 16, Bhumika Shrestha, an LGBTQ rights advocate, became Nepal's first transgender woman lawmaker for the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in the House of Representatives.
Shrestha said she is excited and feels a responsibility to address community issues in Parliament.
Her election stands as a historic milestone for Nepal's LGBTQ community, which has progressive laws on LGBTQ rights.
The Rastriya Swatantra Party won a majority in the recent elections, securing 182 seats.

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Guruswamy Champions Equality

Menaka Guruswamy becomes India's first openly queer member of parliament, representing West Bengal in the Rajya Sabha.
The renowned constitutional lawyer aims to advocate for equality, fraternity, and non-discrimination.
Her election reflects the Trinamool Congress's plan to increase women's representation, as five of its 13 Rajya Sabha MPs are women.
Activists see it as a catalyst for LGBTQ+ rights discussions and reforms in India, including marriage equality.

1 / 2