A sensitisation session aimed at bridging the gap between the law and real-world accessibility for LGBTQIA+ individuals was held in Bengaluru on February 20, 2025. Organised in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Bengaluru Urban, the event sought to equip panel advocates and paralegal volunteers with the tools needed to provide competent and inclusive legal services to the community.
Held at Paalana Bhavana, the session was co-organised by the NGOs RAAHI: A Journey Towards Dignity and SAATHII.
Speakers addressed the challenges faced by queer and trans individuals despite legal reforms, including the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 and the decriminalisation of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. “Legal protection exists on paper, but accessibility remains an issue,” said Dr L Ramakrishnan, a key facilitator at the event.
Adv Vanishree (Senior Panel Advocate) and Adv Jayashree RS (Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, DLSA) discussed the importance of sensitisation in legal services. “Without an understanding of the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ persons, even well-intentioned legal professionals may fall short in providing effective counsel,” Vanishree said.
A total of 46 participants including panel advocates, law students, and paralegal volunteers, attended the session. The discussion also focused on increasing public awareness through media and community outreach. “More visibility means better support. Legal aid must go beyond paperwork and be embedded in the community,” said external resource person Mallu Kumbar.
The session concluded with a Q&A, with participants stressing the need for continued efforts in legal education and policy reforms. The initiative is part of an ongoing series aimed at ensuring that justice systems become truly inclusive for all.