Asian Games Gold Medalist Dutee Chand Opens Up About Being In A Same-Sex Relationship

2018 Asian Games double silver medalist Dutee Chand has become the first Indian athlete to acknowledge that she is in a same-sex relationship.

The 23-year-old, who did not identify her partner by name she did not want her to become “the centre of undue attention”.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Dutee said "I have found someone who is my soulmate. I believe everyone should have the freedom to be with whoever they decide they want to be with. I have always supported the rights of those who want to be in a same-sex relationship. It is an individual person’s choice."

REUTERS

The 100 m record holder said she was encouraged to reveal her relationship after the Supreme Court decriminalized Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code last year.

"I have always believed that everyone should have the freedom to love. There is no greater emotion than love and it should not be denied. The Supreme Court of India has also struck down the old law. I believe nobody has the right to judge me as an athlete because of my decision to be with who I want. It is a personal decision, which should be respected. I will continue to strive to win medals for India at international meets," Dutee said.

AFP

Dutee, born in an impoverished family in Jajpur district of Odisha holds the national record for 100m. In 2018 she became first India athlete to win a medal in athletics in Asian Games since 1998.