Maya Gurung and Surendra Pandey, a couple poised to make history as Nepal’s first legally recognized same-sex partners, have encountered a significant hurdle in their journey towards marriage equality. Maya, a transgender woman, and Surendra, a gay man, had their hopes pinned on a Supreme Court interim order directing the government to register same-sex unions until proper legislation could be enacted. Despite holding a temple wedding ceremony in 2017, their marriage remained unacknowledged in legal terms. The district court in Kathmandu, however, declined their marriage registration, asserting that lower courts weren’t bound by the interim order’s jurisdiction.
The couple’s plight showcases the ongoing struggle for equal rights within Nepal’s LGBTQ community. Progress made in legal protection and social acceptance is undermined by this recent setback. Pinky Gurung, leader of the LGBTQ rights group Blue Diamond Society, emphasizes that the battle for marriage equality remains a lengthy one, despite favorable rulings from entities like the Supreme Court. Sunil Babu Pant, Nepal’s first openly gay MP and founder of Blue Diamond Society, underscores the need for Maya and Surendra’s case as a precedent for future couples seeking recognition.
The ordeal endured by Maya and Surendra echoes the complexities faced by many LGBTQ individuals. Prior to their court submission, they navigated bureaucratic obstacles and even underwent a challenging journey to obtain requisite documents. Maya’s personal journey, including a forced earlier marriage and eventual divorce, exemplifies the adversity she’s overcome. The couple’s experience reflects the broader journey towards social inclusion and legal rights for Nepal’s sexual and gender minorities.
Despite this setback, Maya and Surendra are unwavering in their determination. They envision not just a recognized marriage but also shared financial stability, property ownership, and eventually, adoption. Their story serves as a poignant reminder that legal recognition is not merely about legality but about honoring love, commitment, and the aspiration for a brighter future within an inclusive society.