Historic Milestone: Nepal Officially Registers First Same-Sex Marriage

November 30, 2023

Five months after the landmark decision by Nepal’s Supreme Court legalizing same-sex marriage, the country has officially registered its first case. This move positions Nepal as the first South Asian country to recognize and formalize same-sex marriages. The groundbreaking event took place in Dordi Rural Municipality of Lamjung district, Western Nepal.

Long Legal Journey: From 2007 to 2023

Nepal’s legal journey towards recognizing same-sex marriage began in 2007 when the Supreme Court first allowed it. The 2015 Constitution explicitly prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation. On June 27, 2023, the Supreme Court issued an interim order to legalize same-sex marriage, making it a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight for equality. The recent registration of Maya and Surendra’s marriage represents a tangible realization of this legal milestone.

Challenges Overcome: Rejected Application and Legal Progress

Despite the historic court order, Kathmandu District Court rejected the marriage application four months ago, citing the absence of necessary laws. However, the perseverance of the couple and the ongoing efforts of advocacy groups have now resulted in the successful registration of their marriage. This achievement is not only a personal victory for Maya and Surendra but also a triumph for the broader LGBTQ+ community in Nepal.

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