BHUBANESWAR: Odisha sprint queen Dutee Chand became India’s first sportsperson to open up about her same-sex relationship Sunday. She stated that the SC ruling on the issue last year prompted her to commit to her partner.
The Olympian, who has the national record in women’s 100m, is also the first person to win a case against the International Association of Athletics Federation for its rule on hyperandrogenism, in the Court of Arbitration for Sports. The rule prohibited athletes with high testosterone level to compete in track and field events.
Speaking about her partner, she said, “I have been in a relationship with her for the past three years. She is one of my biggest fans and motivates me in every step of my life. I believe that I have found my soul mate in her.”
“Everyone should have the freedom to be with whoever they decide they want to be with. It is an individual person’s choice. There is nothing to be afraid or ashamed about it,” she added.
Many came forward to support her in the aftermath of her revelation. Sanchita Dwivedi, a supporter of the LGBTQ community, said, “Though same sex relationships have been decriminalized in India, people are skeptical. In times like these, I believe, that her step is very brave, encouraging and bold. More power to strong self made women who aren’t afraid of the world. More power to the LGBTQIA+ community.”
Bijaya Biswal, organiser of a Pride Parade in the city, said, “Too many people in Odisha suffer from mental health issues, bad marriages and stressful relationships with family members or workplace colleagues because of the burden of being a closeted individual. They are often isolated for being what they are, more prone to depression and sexual harassment, disowned by their families or discriminated at their workplaces and take years to convince themselves that it is a phase that will pass, or a disease, or something that needs meditation or medication. Duttee Chand is an inspiration that will give more power to strong self made women who aren’t afraid of the world. More power to the LGBTQIA+ community.”
Sabyasachi Satpathy, an LGBTQ member and the first Odia to participate in the reality show Bigg Boss, said, “It is a commendable step and must be cheered. Congrats to Dutee for her courage. Being the pride of our country, she has chosen her path and partner without any pressure. I hope everyone from LGBTQ community come in large numbers to support her.”
Ayesha Behera, a transgender model of the city, said, “Dutee Chand is the first celebrity to come out in the open and speak about her sexuality. It is quite inspiring for the LGBTQ population of the country and state after what she has done. The SC, in its judgment, said that what one does inside his home is his right. We hope people will understand the issue and open up their minds.”
Meghna Sahoo, who was the first transgender cab driver in India in April 2018, said, “If two people enter into a relationship based on consensus, no one possesses the right to object to it. Even the SC had supported same-sex relationships. The LGBTQ community still faces serious problems in healthcare, admission to educational institutes and buying lands and homes.”
Model Pooja Mishra, who knows Duttee Chand closely, said, “I have been associated with the LGBTQ community for the last three years. I feel really happy and positive about this. Sexual orientation is a natural phenomenon. Any individual has sovereignty over his or her body. The LGBTQ community is no different and they possess the same rights as us. India is changing! Lets change our mentality and accept them.”