Menaka Guruswamy Sworn in as India’s First Openly Queer MP in Rajya Sabha
Menaka Guruswamy has over two decades of legal work that has changed how India defines equality. On April 6, 2026, she made history by becoming India’s first openly queer Member of Parliament (MP) after being nominated by the All India Trinamool Congress from West Bengal. Her swearing-in drew significant attention beyond the Rajya Sabha chamber, symbolizing a step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in Indian politics.
Guruswamy is widely recognized for her pivotal role as the lead counsel in the Supreme Court case that decriminalized homosexuality in India by reading down Section 377 in 2018. This landmark ruling was a significant victory for the LGBTQ+ community, and Guruswamy’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping the discourse around equality in the country.
Born in Hyderabad in 1974, Guruswamy has an impressive academic background, having studied at the National Law School of India University, Oxford, and Harvard Law School. Her expertise has earned her accolades, including being named among the 100 most influential Global Thinkers by Foreign Policy magazine and included in Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2019.
In addition to her legal work, Guruswamy has served as visiting faculty at prestigious institutions such as Yale Law School, New York University School of Law, and Columbia Law School. She was appointed as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court of India in 2019 and is currently a litigant in the case for gender-equal marriage rights in India.
After taking her oath, Guruswamy expressed her commitment to carrying forward the ideals of equality and non-discrimination into Parliament. “I hope to carry these ideals forward into Parliament,” she stated, emphasizing her dedication to the values enshrined in the Constitution.
Guruswamy’s journey to this moment has been marked by her unwavering advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality. She has become a beacon of hope for many in the community, inspiring others to pursue their rights and fight for equality.
As observers reflect on this historic moment, many are optimistic about the changes Guruswamy’s presence in Parliament may bring. Her unique perspective and experiences are expected to contribute significantly to discussions around LGBTQ+ rights and broader issues of equality in India.
With 19 other members sworn in on the same day, Guruswamy’s induction is seen as a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for representation and rights for marginalized communities in India. The future holds promise as she embarks on this new chapter in her career.
As the nation watches, Guruswamy’s role in Parliament will be closely monitored, with many hoping that her leadership will pave the way for further advancements in equality and justice for all.
