Why in news?
In September 2025 discussion about equality for transgender persons again reached Parliament and the courts. Civil society groups argued that, even after landmark judgments and legislation, discrimination remains common. Activists pressed for moving beyond symbolic recognition to real inclusion in education, health care and public office.
A brief history
India’s Supreme Court recognised a third gender in the 2014 NALSA v. Union of India judgement, affirming the right to self‑identify. Parliament later enacted the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2019, which prohibits discrimination and created the National Council for Transgender Persons. Some states launched early initiatives; Tamil Nadu set up an Aravanis welfare board in 2008, Karnataka reserved government jobs for transgender applicants, and Kerala offered financial support for gender‑affirmation surgery. Despite these measures, social prejudice and administrative hurdles continue to limit their impact.
Persistent challenges
- Everyday discrimination: Transgender persons often face ridicule, harassment and violence at home, in school and at work.
- Tokenism in quotas: Reservations exist on paper but many posts remain unfilled due to lack of supportive environments and proper guidelines.
- Economic vulnerability: Limited access to formal jobs forces many into begging or sex work, trapping them in a cycle of poverty.
- Lack of political voice: There are few transgender representatives in elected bodies, which hampers policy advocacy.
- Identity documentation: Obtaining certificates that match gender identity can be complicated, and many officials are unfamiliar with the law.
What more is needed?
- Inclusive education: Schools and universities should admit transgender students without discrimination, provide gender‑neutral toilets and sensitise staff.
- Health and housing support: Free or subsidised medical services, including counselling and gender‑affirmation surgery, and protection from eviction can improve well‑being.
- Political representation: Reserving seats in local bodies and legislatures would amplify transgender voices and bring accountability.
- Social awareness: Public campaigns and training for officials and police can counter prejudice and ensure respectful treatment.
- Holistic welfare: Moving from charity‑based schemes to rights‑based measures—such as pensions, skill training and legal aid—will help integrate transgender persons into mainstream society.
True inclusion requires recognising transgender persons not merely as beneficiaries but as equal citizens. Policies must shift from symbolic gestures to structural reforms that guarantee dignity, opportunity and safety.