Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Criminology

Faculty/School

Faculty of Human and Social Sciences

First Advisor

Dr. Stacey Hannem

Advisor Role

Co-supervisor

Second Advisor

Dr. Tony Christensen

Advisor Role

Co-supervisor

Abstract

In India, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), a Hindu nationalist party, has been in federal power since 2014. The BJP systematically marginalizes and punishes LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual/Aromantic/Agender) people of different religions (Hindus, Muslims, Dalits, Sikhs, Christens, Catholics, etc.); directly and indirectly. This research examines how, and to what extent, BJP claims about LGBTQIA+ individuals in India are represented in media. While past research documents the prejudice and discrimination against non-Hindus in India, particularly among Muslims and Dalits, an in-depth analysis of how this discrimination is perpetuated and used is missing. This research employs a qualitative media analysis to describe how news media frame the social and political experiences and interactions of LGBTQIA+ individuals in India, which has a large social and political presence of the BJP. A social constructionist perspective is employed to understand if and/or how immorality, deviance, and criminality are constructed. This research aims to provide an analysis of how the media represents the Indian government's statements and policies regarding LGTBQIA+ people. Additionally, by understanding these constructions and revealing how they work, this research will further the goals of challenging and disrupting these discourses and enacting social, legal, and political interventions to improve rights for LGBTQIA+ individuals residing in India.

Comments

If required, please contact Suman Mondal (they/he) at mond9810@mylaurier.ca.

Convocation Year

2024

Convocation Season

Spring

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Available for download on Sunday, June 30, 2024

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