Dr. Abraham Mathai, founder-chairman of Harmony Foundation and former Vice-Chairman of the Minorities Commission, has expressed his support for the Supreme Court’s recent decision rejecting review petitions against its October 2023 judgment in the same-sex marriage case. This landmark judgment had declined to grant legal recognition to same-sex marriages or civil unions. On Thursday, a Constitution bench of the Supreme Court reaffirmed its stance by dismissing the pleas for a review.
Dr. Mathai shared his perspectives on this significant and sensitive issue, emphasizing the potential societal and psychological consequences of granting legal recognition to same-sex marriages, particularly when accompanied by adoption rights. He noted that while same-sex relationships have gained broader acceptance in contemporary times, many still view such unions as incongruent with the natural order.
He elaborated on the critical implications for children if such unions were to be legally recognized, stating, “Had the judiciary upheld the petitions, legalizing same-sex marriages would inevitably lead to the question of adoption rights. This could create profound challenges, as children are a natural outcome of procreation, necessitating both a mother and a father for their balanced psychological and emotional development.” Dr. Mathai referenced modern secular psychology, noting that it affirms the complementary roles of a man and a woman in nurturing a child.
Focusing on the rights and well-being of children, he stressed, “The primary concern must always be the welfare of underage minors, particularly those from orphanages who are inherently vulnerable and deserve a stable and balanced upbringing. Granting same-sex couples the right to adopt could, in my view, inadvertently affect the child’s orientation, emotional wellness, and ability to thrive in a traditional societal framework.”
Dr. Mathai clarified that his views are not rooted in discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community. “Same-sex couples deserve respect, dignity, and equal rights as guaranteed by the Constitution. However, when it comes to matters involving marriage and adoption, the rights and welfare of a third party – the adopted child – must be the primary focus,” he stated.
He also highlighted the challenges faced by Generation Z, even within conventional family structures, and warned against introducing additional complexities into a child’s developmental journey by permitting adoption by same-sex couples.
In conclusion, Dr. Mathai advocated for a balanced and thoughtful approach to this sensitive matter. “It is essential to ensure that reason and prudence guide our decisions. Protecting the welfare of children and maintaining societal stability must take precedence, safeguarding future generations from unnecessary challenges,” he said.
