Core Holding: Decriminalization of Consensual Same-Sex Relations
Section 377 IPC, insofar as it criminalizes consensual sexual acts between competent adults in private (including homosexuals, heterosexuals, bisexuals, and lesbians), is unconstitutional and violative of Articles 14, 15, 19(1)(a), and 21. It remains valid for non-consensual acts and bestiality. (!) (!) (!) (!) (!)

Transformative Constitutionalism
The Constitution is a living document that adapts to societal evolution, promoting equality, dignity, and inclusion for all, including sexual minorities (LGBT community). Courts must protect fundamental rights of marginalized groups against majoritarian views. (!) (!) (!) (!) (!) (!) (!) (!)

Constitutional Morality
Prioritizes pluralistic, inclusive society over social morality. State organs, including judiciary, must uphold heterogeneous society, curbing majority usurpation of minority rights. Constitutional morality trumps societal notions. (!) (!) (!) (!) (!)

Sexual Orientation as Natural
Sexual orientation (homosexuality, bisexuality, heterosexuality) is innate, biological, and immutable—not a mental illness or choice. Controlled by neurological factors; consensual acts reflect identity and autonomy. (!) (!) (!) (!) (!)

Right to Privacy and Autonomy
Privacy is a fundamental right under Article 21, encompassing sexual orientation, choice of partner, intimacy, and bodily sovereignty. Consensual private acts are protected; state intrusion unwarranted absent harm. Autonomy over body and relationships is core to dignity. (!) (!) (!) (!) (!) (!)

Progressive Realization of Rights
Rights evolve dynamically; non-retrogression prohibits regression. Constitution demands continual advancement toward equality and inclusion. (!) (!) (!)

Section 375 IPC vs. Section 377 IPC
Section 375 (rape) excludes consensual non-peno-vaginal acts post-2013 amendment; Section 377 lacks consent element, creating anomaly for heterosexuals. Criminalizing consensual acts serves no public purpose. (!) (!) (!)

Article 14 (Equality and Non-Arbitrariness)
Section 377 fails reasonable classification: lacks intelligible differentia (consensual vs. non-consensual) and rational nexus to protect women/children (covered by Section 375/POCSO). Manifestly arbitrary, discriminatory against LGBT. (!) (!) (!) (!) (!)

Article 15 (Non-Discrimination on Sex)
"Sex" includes sexual orientation/gender identity. Section 377 discriminates based on partner's sex, stereotyping LGBT; violates equality. (!) (!) (!)

Article 19(1)(a) (Expression)
Criminalization chills free expression of identity, choice, relationships. Unreasonable restriction; no nexus to public order/decency/morality. (!) (!)

Article 21 (Life, Liberty, Dignity, Health)
Violates dignity, privacy, autonomy, health (HIV stigma, mental health). LGBT entitled to equal citizenship, safe intimacy. (!) (!) (!)

Overruling Prior Decision
Suresh Koushal rejected; "miniscule fraction" irrelevant; rights not majoritarian. (!) (!) (!) (!)

Remedies and Directions
- Wide publicity, stigma reduction programs.
- Sensitization training for officials/police.
No costs; pending cases may cite; no reopening of final matters. (!) (!)