Who Is Sonal Patil, Pune Judge Set To Lead LGBTQ+ Pride Parade On June 8?
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Pune's District Judge Sonal Patil launched the Nyaya Samhita Project to offer legal aid and spread awareness about government schemes among marginalised communities
In a significant show of support for the LGBTQ+ community, the District Judge of Pune will not only participate in but also lead the upcoming Pride Parade in the city scheduled for Sunday, June 8, 2025. Her decision to take part in the rally has surprised many and is being hailed as a powerful gesture toward inclusivity and equality.
While the LGBTQ+ community has long fought a legal battle for recognition—culminating in a historic Supreme Court verdict—social acceptance remains a challenge. The Yutak Charitable Trust's Pune Pride, held to raise awareness and visibility, is expected to be particularly special this year with the active involvement of the judiciary.
The Pune Pride 2025 March, organised by the Yutak Charitable Trust, is making headlines for the participation of Sonal S. Patil, Secretary of the Pune District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) and District Judge, who will join the march as a co-grand marshal.
With over 15 years of experience in the judiciary, Judge Patil has expressed strong support for the LGBTQ+ community and their ongoing struggle for equality. 'Inclusivity is essential for a free and just society," she said. 'When a person feels accepted, their confidence, motivation, and productivity increase," she added.
An Indian Express report highlights that inclusivity, according to Patil, promotes diversity and fosters a sense of belonging. She noted, 'When individuals feel included, they are more likely to experience a sense of belonging, which can boost their confidence, motivation, and productivity."
District Judge Sonal Patil has served in various judicial capacities across Maharashtra. In 2019, she was promoted to Deputy Registrar of the Bombay High Court and later appointed as Officer on Special Duty in the Supreme Court of India. Since 2023, she has been serving as the Secretary of the Pune District Legal Services Authority (DLSA). Judge Patil is also pursuing a PhD in Cyber Law from Bharati Vidyapeeth.
Settlement Of Cases Through Lok Adalats
Under the leadership of Judge Sonal Patil, more than 7.26 lakh cases have been resolved through National Lok Adalat, with settlements amounting to approximately Rs 2,698 crore. The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) has also been actively supporting the LGBTQ+ community through a range of services, including free legal aid, counseling, awareness programs on legal rights and collaboration with NGOs.
'Our role is to ensure that every individual receives dignity and justice under the law," Judge Patil said. Referring to the landmark Navtej Singh Johar case, she noted that the Supreme Court has clearly affirmed the LGBTQ+ community's right to protection from discrimination.
Message To Society
In an interview with the Indian Express about her participation in the Pune Pride March, Judge Sonal Patil said, 'This is not just a step, but a message to society that every person is equal and deserves respect. We must all work together to build an inclusive society."
Patil highlighted that the Supreme Court of India has affirmed the LGBTQ+ community's right to protection against discrimination based on their sexual orientation and gender identity in the Navtej Singh Johar case.
Patil mentioned that the DLSA strives to empower marginalised communities by helping them assert their rights and access justice. 'Our mission is to uphold the rule of law and ensure that everyone is treated with dignity and respect," she stated.
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