Beyond the Spectrum: LGBTQIA+ Experiences in Indian Workplaces

Homosexuality in India is often viewed as a sensitive topic with societal implications. It has always been a part of Indian society, with a rich and enduring presence throughout its history. However, in the last few decades, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual, with the plus representing other identities (LGBTQIA+) community has been feeling persecuted in society at different levels, including educational institutions and the workplace. In 2018, the Supreme Court of India partially abolished Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, resulting in the recognition of consensual homosexuality. However, there is still a significant lack in creating an inclusive, equal, and just environment for the LGBTQIA+ community. There is a scarcity of data on the experiences of LGBTQIA+ employees in the workplace in India, as only a few companies are actively working toward promoting inclusion of this vulnerable community and implementing beneficial policies. Several surveys have consistently indicated that LGBTQIA+ employees have frequently encountered several types of discrimination at the workplace. They are either forced to quit their jobs or paid less than their heterosexual colleagues. The India Workplace Equality Index (IWEI) is a benchmarking tool that measures LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion in India. The present chapter aims to understand the experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ employees at various workplaces throughout India, even after several judicial reforms. The chapter also discusses the various steps taken by institutions to foster LGBTQIA+ inclusivity in the workplace. An empirical study of a few companies regarding the work experience of LGBTQIA+ individuals has also been done. The final part of the chapter presents a simple strategy that organizations can easily adopt to foster inclusivity for transgender individuals.