Centre opposes tax relief plea for same-sex couples at Karnataka High Court

The Union government has taken a firm stance against extending tax relief provisions to same-sex couples, telling the Karnataka High Court that it lacks the legal framework to offer such concessions to unmarried individuals. The government's submission came during the court's hearing on a petition filed by a same-sex couple seeking tax benefits equivalent to those granted to married couples under Indian tax law.

Justice B Shyama Prasad heard the government's arguments on Monday as the bench considered whether existing tax provisions discriminate against same-sex partners who cannot legally marry under current Indian law. The central government's position reflects the absence of legal recognition for same-sex marriage in India, which continues to be governed by personal laws that do not permit unions between partners of the same gender.

The case highlights the ongoing legal challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in India regarding inheritance, succession, and financial benefits that are automatically extended to heterosexual married couples. While several high courts have examined the constitutional validity of discriminatory provisions affecting same-sex couples, the fundamental issue of marriage equality remains unresolved at the national level.

The petition represents one of several attempts by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and affected individuals to secure equal treatment under Indian tax and financial laws. The outcome of the Karnataka High Court hearing could have implications for similar cases pending in other jurisdictions across the country.