Bill introduced to redefine 'transgender person', removing self-perceived identity tabled
The Centre introduced a Bill to amend the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, proposing a redefinition of "transgender person" that removes the "right to self-perceived gender identity." The government stated the existing definition was vague and made it difficult to identify genuine oppressed persons for benefits. The proposed definition focuses on socio-cultural identities like kinner, hijra, aravani, jogta, eunuchs, intersex variations, and congenital variations in sexual characteristics, explicitly excluding "persons with different sexual orientations and self-perceived sexual identities." This move has drawn condemnation from the community and activists, who argue it contradicts the landmark 2014 NALSA judgment.
Key Points
- A Bill has been introduced to amend the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
- The proposed amendment redefines "transgender person," removing the concept of "self-perceived gender identity."
- The new definition focuses on socio-cultural identities and biological/congenital variations, excluding sexual orientation and self-perceived identities.
- Activists criticize the amendment for contradicting the 2014 NALSA judgment and undermining transgender rights.
Exam Facts
- Act being amended: Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
- Minister who introduced the Bill: Virendra Kumar (Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment).
- Landmark judgment: 2014 NALSA judgment.
- Socio-cultural identities mentioned: kinner, hijra, aravani, jogta, eunuch.
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