India doesn't discriminate tourists based on sexual orientation: Minister Alphons
India doesn't discriminate against tourists based on their sexual orientation and everyone is welcome to the country, Tourism Minister KJ Alphons said today. The Minister was responding to a question about the government's view on promoting LGBT tourism in the country in the backdrop of the Supreme Court decriminalizing homosexuality and Thailand promoting itself as a safe destination for the community.
We believe in tourism for all: Alphons
"Our tourism is for all. We do not discriminate against sexual preferences of anyone. Everybody is welcome here, absolutely everyone. We believe in tourism for all," Alphons told media persons at the launch of the India Tourism Mart in New Delhi.
Alphons initially refused to answer, had termed question 'irrelevant'
The Tourism Minister, however, had initially refused to answer the question, terming it as "irrelevant". Later, he addressed it. On September 6, the SC ruled that gay sex between consenting adults is not a crime saying sexual orientation is natural. Thailand held the very first LGBT+ Travel Symposium in June to promote the country as a safe and inclusive destination for same-sex couples.
