The Congress on Friday stated that if it is voted to power at the Centre, it would introduce legislation to recognise civil unions between couples belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community.
In its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the opposition party also stated it would promote reforms of personal laws but stressed that such reforms must be carried out with the involvement and agreement of the communities concerned.
The affirmation by the Congress regarding reforms of personal laws, but with the consent of the communities concerned, comes amid a push by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to implement a Uniform Civil Code.
The Congress also stated it will honour and uphold the fundamental right to practise one's faith and the rights guaranteed to religious minorities under articles 15, 16, 25, 26, 28, 29, and 30 of the Constitution.
"After wide consultation, Congress will bring a law to recognise civil unions between couples belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community," the manifesto said.
Also Read: Congress Manifesto: Statehood for J&K, legal guarantee for MSPs, jobs & healthcare
LGBTQIA stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual. The additional "+" stands for all of the other identities not encompassed in the short acronym.
"We will also respect and uphold the rights of linguistic minorities guaranteed under Articles 15, 16, 29 and 30 of the Constitution," the Congress said.
The party also pledged to support and empower students and young people from minority communities to take advantage of the expanding opportunities in education, employment, business, services, sports, arts, and various other sectors.
"We will restore the Maulana Azad Scholarships for study abroad and increase the number of scholarships," the manifesto said.
The Congress affirmed its commitment to ensuring that minorities, like all citizens of the country, have the freedom to choose their dress, food, language, and personal laws.
"We will encourage reform of personal laws. Such reform must be undertaken with the participation and consent of the communities concerned," it said.
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