The Supreme Court on Monday referred the pleas seeking legal recognition of ‘same-sex marriage’ to a five-judge constitution bench for adjudication, saying the issue is of “seminal importance”.

“We are of the considered view that it would be appropriate if the issues raised are resolved by a bench of five judges with due regard to Article 145 (3) of the Constitution. Thus, we direct the matter be placed before a five-judge Constitution bench,” a bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud said. The apex court posted the matter for April 18.