Two teens sat side by side on a train in Mumbai, their hands close but not quite touching. They didn’t speak much, both unsure of what awaited them. All they knew was they were heading somewhere safe — a space they’d only heard about in quiet conversations — a place where people like them could just… be.

When they finally walked through the door, their nerves slowly gave way to soft smiles and kind eyes. One found a counsellor to talk to, and the other joined a poetry circle. For the first time in a long time, they weren’t hiding.

For countless queer people across India, that moment — the feeling of being seen without fear — is the real triumph.

It’s a victory built on years of struggle and courage. From the partial decriminalisation of same-sex love in 2009 to the recognition of transgender rights in 2014 to the landmark 2018 ruling that finally struck down Section 377 — each milestone was a crack in the wall, letting the light in. And though the road ahead still holds challenges, every conversation around equality — from marriage rights to inclusive education — moves us closer to a more loving, open India.

But change doesn’t only come from courtrooms. It blooms in poetry nights and late-night conversations. In therapy rooms, laughter and shared silence. In safe spaces — where, finally, no one has to explain why they belong.

This is what a safe space looks like.

What is a safe space?

For members of the LGBTQ community, a safe space is more than just a physical location. It is a haven — where identities are respected, support is freely offered, and one can simply exist without fear or judgement. These spaces provide emotional care, legal support, healthcare, and —........

© The Better India