Menaka Guruswamy has over two decades of legal work that has changed how India defines equality. She made history on April 6, 2026, when she was sworn in as India’s first openly queer Member of Parliament (MP) in the Rajya Sabha, representing the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) from West Bengal.
Guruswamy’s appointment comes at a time when LGBTQ+ rights in India are gaining increased visibility and support. She is well-known 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.
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 contributions to legal advocacy have earned her recognition, 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.
On the day of her swearing-in, Guruswamy expressed her hopes for her new role, stating, “I hope to carry these ideals forward into Parliament.” She emphasized the importance of the Constitution’s values of equality, fraternity, and non-discrimination, which she said have guided her life and work.
Guruswamy’s swearing-in drew significant attention beyond the Rajya Sabha chamber, reflecting the growing acknowledgment of LGBTQ+ issues in Indian society. Her presence in the Parliament is seen as a beacon of hope for many advocates of equality and rights.
In addition to her work on LGBTQ+ rights, Guruswamy is also a litigant in the ongoing case for gender-equal marriage rights in India, further solidifying her commitment to advancing equality.
As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, observers are keen to see how Guruswamy will navigate the political landscape and advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. Her experience and dedication to legal reform are expected to play a crucial role in shaping discussions around equality in the Indian Parliament.
With 19 other members sworn in on the same day, Guruswamy’s historic moment marks a significant shift in the representation of diverse voices in India’s legislative body. The implications of her role as an openly queer MP are profound, signaling a step forward in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and broader social justice in India.
As the political landscape evolves, many are hopeful that Guruswamy’s presence will inspire further progress towards equality and inclusivity in the country.
