Thaindian News

By Ranjan Bhaduri
California, Apr 24, (THAINDIAN NEWS) In his recent visit in California, President Barack Obama had to face the wrath of Gay rights activists who have been demanding for a long time the repeal of the draconian don’t ask, don’t tell policy from the military. This is quite surprising considering the fact that in that state he enjoys an overwhelming approval rating. When he was about to start his speech, a section of the crowd started shouting and repeatedly kept saying that the policy should be withdrawn immediately. The President did not expect to face such a vehement protest but when he released the scenario he tried to pacify the mob.

The president said that his government would repeal the law and allow gay soldiers work in the military without requiring them to live in the closet. He said that he understands the need of the gay community and his government is in the process of repealing it. However, the president was interrupted three times again. He did not specify whether the law would be scrapped off this year or not. This is what the protesters expected. Bill Burton, the White House press secretary did not clarify the issue either.

The different states of the USA have different stance on the LGBT issues and the government has often faced demands of the activists to recognize their rights. A lot of gay and lesbians work in the military but they have to keep their orientation suppressed owing to the law. The LGBT support groups have long demanded withdrawal of the law for gay military personnel and they have become more vocal about it in recent times.