RUSLAN SHARIPOV GRANTED A U.S. ASYLUM
Source: RFE/RL's Newsline


Ruslan Sharipov, an independent Uzbek journalist whose imprisonment in 2003 sparked international outrage, arrived in the United States last week, the World Association of Newspapers (WAN) announced in a 25 October press release. "We are relieved that Mr. Sharipov is beyond the reach of the Uzbek authorities, and we hope that he can one day return to a free and democratic Uzbekistan," said Kajsa Tornroth, director of press freedom programs for WAN.

Sharipov was sentenced to four years' imprisonment in 2003 for homosexual acts; many saw the move as retaliation for his coverage of human rights violations. According to the press release, Sharipov fled Uzbekistan "in the face of serious threats to his safety," leaving for Moscow in June and eventually arriving in California after being given asylum.


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Not so gay: Lesbians in India
TIMES NEWS NETWORK


MUMBAI: They have long lived in the shadows and continue to do so. Coming out in the open is an option few are willing to dare exercise.

Though male homosexuality is gradually being accepted as part of mainstream life, for lesbians it is a rather uphill task. Low social acceptance has few women willing to profess their sexuality in public.

However, the reluctance to acknowledge them in no way takes away the reality of their existence as well as the need to address their mental health. Keeping in mind such considerations, a mental health conference for lesbians is being organised next month.

"The society is extremely intolerant and ignorant towards lesbians," says Geeta Khumana, chairperson, Aanchal Trust, a support group for women's sexuality. "It forces women to hide their sexual preferences. In doing so, they undergo tremendous psychological strain."


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North Carolina Campaigns Attack Gays
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff


(Raleigh, North Carolina) A GOP candidate for the North Carolina state senate has pulled out the gay card, and the incumbent Governor has lost the endorsement of the state's larges LGBT civil rights group for attacking same-sex marriage.

State Senator Woody White, fighting a tough race against Democrat Julia Boseman, has bought ads and sent out a mass mailer this week warning voters that if Boseman could become the first openly gay legislator in North Carolina history.