Menaka Guruswamy Makes History as First Openly LGBTQ+ Member in Parliament

Historic Entry into Parliament

Menaka Guruswamy has created history by becoming one of the first openly LGBTQ+ members in India’s Parliament. She took oath as a Rajya Sabha MP from West Bengal in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards inclusivity and representation.

Who is Menaka Guruswamy?

Menaka Guruswamy is a senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India, widely respected for her expertise in constitutional law. She is also known as an academic and human rights activist, with a strong voice on issues of equality and justice.

She began her legal career working under former Attorney General Ashok Desai in 1997, whom she considers her mentor. Her achievements have also been recognized in the book Rising: 30 Women Who Changed India.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 27, 1974, in Hyderabad, Menaka comes from an educated and influential family. Her father, Mohan Guruswamy, is a noted policy advisor and political figure.

After gaining initial legal experience in India, she pursued higher studies abroad. She completed her Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL) from University of Oxford in 2001 and later earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Harvard University.

She also worked as an associate at Davis Polk & Wardwell in New York. Notably, her portrait is displayed at Rhodes House, Oxford—making her the first Indian and the only woman to receive this honor.

Role in Landmark Legal Battles

Menaka Guruswamy, along with her partner Arundhati Katju, played a crucial role in challenging Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code.

In 2009, the Delhi High Court decriminalized homosexuality, but the decision was overturned by the Supreme Court in 2013. The legal battle continued, and in a landmark 2018 judgment, the Supreme Court finally decriminalized homosexuality, marking a historic victory for LGBTQ+ rights in India.

Champion of LGBTQ+ Rights

Guruswamy has been at the forefront of advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, equality, and constitutional freedoms. Her legal arguments and activism have significantly contributed to shaping modern India’s approach toward inclusivity.

A Step Towards Inclusive Politics

Her entry into Parliament is being seen as a major step toward inclusive governance, reflecting the country’s evolving democratic values. It also sends a strong message about representation and equal opportunities for all sections of society.