Parliament has recently passed a key amendment bill related to the protection and rights of transgender persons. The Rajya Sabha approved the legislation on Wednesday, a day after it was passed in the Lok Sabha. The bill proposes removing social orientations from the scope of the existing law.
The amendment seeks changes to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. It also introduces graded punishment based on the severity of offences committed against transgender individuals.
Responding to the debate in the Rajya Sabha, Union Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Virendra Kumar said the government aims to bring all sections of society together through this legislation. He clarified that the bill is intended to safeguard those facing discrimination due to biological factors, while ensuring continued legal recognition and protection for transgender persons.
The minister reiterated that the government remains committed to protecting individuals affected by biological conditions and ensuring their rights are upheld. He also stressed the need to integrate such individuals into the mainstream so they can live with dignity.
Also read: https://prsindia.org/billtrack/the-transgender-persons-protection-of-rights-bill-2019
Highlighting welfare measures, he said transgender welfare boards have been established in more than 30 states. According to him, the amendment will improve administrative clarity and strengthen rights protections.
The bill was passed in the Upper House by voice vote after opposition amendments were rejected. Demands to send the bill to a select committee were also turned down.
The proposed law defines “transgender” more precisely and excludes different sexual orientations and self-perceived identities from its scope.
During the debate, AAP MP Swati Maliwal raised concerns over provisions that criminalise inducing someone to identify as transgender, calling them vague and potentially harmful. She warned that such clauses could impact families, doctors and support systems. She urged the government to refer the bill to a select committee for wider consultation, stating that delayed justice undermines dignity.
JMM MP Mahua Maji also pointed out that transgender persons still do not enjoy equal rights, adding that given opportunities, they are as capable as anyone else. BJP MP Amar Pal Maurya also participated in the discussion.