PETA wants to help a gay Indian animal activist find a husband
Animal rights charity People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is making a strange foray into gay rights – trying to help find a husband for a male animal rights activist.
Indian woman Padma Iyer recently attempted to place matrimonial ads to find a husband for her son Harish, a 36-year-old LGBT and animal activist.
She was blocked from posting an ad in a number of Indian newspapers, as homosexuality was re-criminalised in India in 2013 and same-sex marriage remains banned.
Mumbai tabloid Mid-Day made history by running the ad – after it was rejected by the Times of India and the Hindustan Times.
PETA has now offered to buy a vegan lunch for Mr Iyer, if he gets any replies from men he wants to meet.
Poorva Joshipura of PETA India told the Advocate: “Harish is known in India as an activist for numerous causes. He spends most of his time advocating for the rights of others, including animals, despite likely facing cruelty in his own life purely because of his sexual orientation.
“He has worked so hard to make this world a kinder place, and PETA India simply wanted to give some of that love back.”
Mr Iyer told the charity: “There is nothing more sexy in a human than his/her/hir kindness towards animals. I believe animals are not for us to wear or eat.
“I understand that I will be compatible only if this is a shared value with my partner. Do let me know if you find a man in your organization or in your knowledge.
“I would bend on my cotton trousers and mock leather shoes to offer him a sapling. I like being with sexy people. I thank you for being sexy too.
“I accept your offer. Thank you love. In joy, Harish.”
It is not the first time the charity has waded into a minor gay rights issue – last year teaming up with late Simpsons creator Sam Simon to rescue a ‘gay’ bull last year who faced slaughter.
Benjy the Bull was rescued and taken to a Norwich animal rights sanctuary after the philanthropist stumped up the funds – though his sexuality was later cast into doubt.
PETA’s foray into gay rights probably won’t be as controversial as its stances on other issues.
It has been repeatedly condemned by disability charities for claiming that “vegan alternatives” to dairy products can prevent Autism – despite a lack of medical evidence. It continues to make the claims on its website.
