SEXUAL DIVERSITY AND GENDER IDENTITY IN SRI LANKAN PERSPECTIVE WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO RIGHTS AND POSITION OF SEXUAL MINORITIES IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM OF SRI LANKA

Abstract

All human beings have acquired a set of rights since their birth and these rights are called "Human Rights". These set of rights cannot be derogated due to the sexual orientation. The Constitution of Sri Lanka states that all citizens are equal before the law and every citizen have the same opportunity without considering their sexual orientation. The Penal Code of Sri Lanka prescribes that, the sex between men and sex between women as offences. This research mainly focused on sexual minorities and their position in Sri Lankan Criminal Justice arena. Through this study, the rights of sexual minorities and penal laws relating to sexual behaviours will be discussed in a critical manner. The purpose of this research is gathering qualitative information in relation to rights of sexual minorities and it further analyzes the penal laws regarding homosexual behaviours in Sri Lankan Criminal Justice System. Generally, this work is internet based research therefore scholarly work on the issue will be reviewed. This qualitative information will help in the formulation of recommendations to build up a better surrounding for sexual minorities and ameliorate their position in Sri Lankan society.