‘Voices Against 377’ is a coalition of 12 Non Governmental Organisations and progressive groups based in Delhi . It is a point of intersection and dialogue between various social movements that these groups represent, where a united voice is being articulated against Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code which criminalizes adult and consensual sexual acts deemed to be against the order of nature.

“377. Unnatural Offences.
Whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.”

Although facially neutral, the law has effectively stigmatized and criminalized a section more than others, namely same-sex desiring people, including those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT), hijra, kothi and other queer people. The law has been used by the police to intimidate same sex desiring people and has been a source of serious human rights violations.

Voices has been an intervening party in the Naz Foundation case and has published reports and organises events to create a climate of acceptance for individuals with alternative sexual orientations and gender identities.