Law criminalising gay sex is obsolete, will take India back to 15th century: Sri Sri

New Delhi: Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar of Art of Living has expressed his thoughts about not allowing women in Shani Shingnapur temple. Speaking to Shereen Bhan of Network18, the spiritual guru also talked about Section 377, which criminalises gay sex, and many other issues.

Regarding the Shani Shingnapur standoff, he said, "I am meeting with the board of trustees of Shani Shingnapur on February 7. I have offered them two models - Kasi vishawanath Model and Tirupati Balaji temple model - where there is no gender discrimination and that should be followed. In this country, especially in the Hindu religion, scripturally there is no gender discrimination; though there has been some off late. Gender equality is one of the fundamental rights, and it should be there in all fields."

Commenting on religious reforms and freedom, Sri Sri said, "In Hindu philosophy, tradition believes in gender equality. Some tradition has been followed since centuries, and there is a psychological fear that if you break it, something bad may happen."

He, however, added that it cannot be achieved with agitation, demonstration and force.

"Convincing and persuasion is the way and that religious leaders can do. It's a deep rooted fear of changing any centuries-old tradition. My message for religious leaders is don't be afraid, god won’t be angry. Religion and spirituality shouldn't be based on fear. Unfortunately we find this in all religions in the world," he said.

Backing the decriminalisation of Section 377 of CrPC, Sri Sri said, "It's an individual preference, if we hold on to obsolete laws, we will be back in the 15th century. Any such reform needs certain courage and conviction. There are many brave politicians while others are very much dependent on their vote bank politics. Reformers have to raise the consciousness of people, educate people and make them aware of social ills. The ruler cannot impose, reformer & ruler have to work together. Sasak and Sudharak marriage has to happen otherwise progress will be hampered."