SC panel urges withdrawal of Transgender Bill denying self-identification
A Supreme Court-constituted Advisory Committee, headed by former Delhi High Court judge Justice Asha Menon, has recommended to the Government of India that the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, be withdrawn. The committee stated that the Bill's proposal to "deny self-identification" of gender goes against the Supreme Court's 2014 NALSA verdict. The chairperson called the amendment a "great shock" and a "tremendous setback" to efforts to mainstream transgender communities, as it removes the right to self-perceived gender identity and introduces a medical board's nod for certificates.
Key Points
- A Supreme Court-constituted Advisory Committee has recommended withdrawing the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026.
- The committee argues that the Bill's denial of "self-identification" of gender contradicts the 2014 NALSA v. Union of India Supreme Court verdict.
- The Bill proposes to remove the right to a self-perceived gender identity and mandates a medical board's approval for transgender certificates.
- The chairperson described the Bill as a "great shock" and a "tremendous setback" for mainstreaming transgender communities.
- The Bill was passed by voice vote in the Lok Sabha amidst an Opposition-led walkout.
Exam Facts
- Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026.
- Supreme Court-constituted Advisory Committee headed by former Delhi High Court judge Justice Asha Menon.
- The Bill contradicts the 2014 NALSA versus Union of India verdict.
- The Bill was passed by voice vote in the Lok Sabha.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.