His comments came amid ongoing debates around LGBTQIA+ rights, social reforms and the role of cultural organisations in shaping public discussions in India. “We have to prepare the society first, because laws don't dictate society; society dictates the laws,” he said. Instead of recognising same-sex marriage within the existing marriage framework, Bhagwat suggested creating a separate system to address the needs of same-sex couples. “Same-sex marriage -- don't say that. The court did not recognise same-sex marriage under existing laws and said decisions on changing marriage-related legislation would have to be taken by Parliament.