Homosexuality is illegal like wearing a fake moustache in church is illegal... ie, It's still on the statute books but it's not enforced and there are no convictions. In india, According to wikipedia, There hasn't been a conviction in over 20 years for homosexuality in india.
I agree with you. It is important for leaders to be without any religious bias. Only then can good governance and cosmopolitan culture be ensured.
Since I've been hauled kicking and screaming into this thread - lets keep it on topic. It's not about whether it's right or wrong to be an athiest. It's not about the supremacy of any particular religion. It's about whether you would vote for someone if they were an atheist. Personally, I don't see any religion being a deal breaker... there are far more important reasons to vote for a particular candidate. We have muslim and transgender Members of Parliament in New Zealand (a traditionally Christian country). While the Muslim MP has had some "interesting" ideas in the past he has basically worked hard and deserves his position. I'm sure that a significant number of the MPs are atheist. I don't see their particular views causing any problems either.
In today's America it does not matter so much what your colour or religion is. You can do well, witness Obama. I think this i a good thing because it shows Americans are capable of looking beyond stereotypes.