BJP Rajya Sabha MP Bhim Singh has raised objections to the IATA airport code ‘GAY’ assigned to Gaya International Airport in Bihar, calling it “culturally and socially offensive.” The lawmaker urged the Centre to consider changing the code to something more appropriate, citing discomfort among locals in the holy city.
Responding to the concern in Parliament, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol said that IATA codes are generally permanent and cannot be changed except in cases where safety is involved. The minister noted that while Air India and other agencies had previously approached IATA with a request for a change, the global aviation body had denied the request, citing Resolution 763, which prohibits changes to existing codes unless there is a compelling reason.
The controversy has sparked criticism from LGBTQ+ activists, who called the MP’s remarks prejudiced and stigmatizing. Activist Arvind Narrain said the objection to the term ‘GAY’ was rooted in homophobia, not cultural sensitivity. Others pointed out that such statements reinforce harmful stereotypes and called on the MP to apologize.
The issue of Gaya airport’s code has been raised earlier as well. In 2022, a parliamentary committee recommended a change, citing discomfort among residents. However, the aviation ministry at the time reiterated that IATA’s rules did not permit such changes without valid safety concerns.
Gaya, a prominent religious destination for both Hindus and Buddhists, draws thousands of pilgrims annually, especially to the nearby Bodh Gaya.
