India’s sprinter Dutee Chand has opened up about her same-sex relationship stating that she is in a relationship with a girl from her hometown in Odisha. Chand, who holds the record for the fastest timing in 100m and is an Asian Games silver medallist didn’t reveal the identity of her partner as she doesn’t want her to be the centre of undue attention.

“I have found someone who is my soulmate. I believe everyone should have the freedom to be with whoever they decide they want to be with. I have always supported the rights of those who want to be in a same-sex relationship. It is an individual person’s choice.

According to the Indian Express, Chand has become comfortable speaking about her relationship only after the Supreme Court decriminalised Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code last year.The sprinter has got her eyes on the qualification for the World Championships and Olympics next year.

Life hasn’t been easy for Dutee Chand as she had to fight and win a ‘gender’ case against the international federation at the Court of Arbitration for Sports last year.In a landmark judgement, the Court of Arbitration for Sports had cleared Dutee Chand to compete in national and international athletics events.