Transgender Bill passed in Lok Sabha; Rahul Gandhi calls it ‘attack on rights’

NEW DELHI: The Lok Sabha on Tuesday passed the Transgender Bill amendment following heated exchanges, protests, and a walkout by opposition members. Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi termed the legislation an “attack on rights,” raising concerns over its impact on the transgender community. Responding to the criticism, Union Minister Virendra Kumar said the amendment is intended to strengthen safeguards and ensure welfare benefits for transgender persons.

According to the amendment, only those with established social and cultural identities such as Kinnar, Hijra, Aravani, and Jogta will be recognised as transgender. Individuals identifying themselves based on personal choice or self-declared gender identity will no longer be considered transgender under the law. The bill passed by the Lok Sabha amends the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. A medical board led by a medical officer will be formed to confirm transgender identity. Individuals must apply to the District Magistrate, who will issue identity certificates.

Several opposition parties, including the Congress, Shiv Sena, NCP, RJD, Samajwadi Party, and Trinamool Congress strongly opposed the bill, stating that it violates fundamental principles of human dignity. They also argued that it goes against a Supreme Court judgment and demanded that the bill be sent to a parliamentary standing committee for further discussion. However, the bill was passed in the House through a voice vote.