India, Aug. 6 -- A BJP MP's complaint that Gaya International Airport's three-letter code "GAY" is "socially and culturally offensive" has sparked backlash from LGBTQ activists who say his remarks reinforce prejudice against the community.

Rajya Sabha member Bhim Singh from Bihar submitted a written query to Parliament questioning why the International Air Transport Association (IATA) code for the Bihar airport remains in use when people find it "uncomfortable".

He asked whether the government would consider changing it to "a more respectful and culturally appropriate code" and sought a timeline for any such process.

The ministry of civil aviation acknowledged receiving similar requests in the past.

Minister of state for civil aviatio...