The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill 2026 was passed by the Lok Sabha on March 24, 2026, by a voice vote. The Bill had been introduced in Lok Sabha on March 13, 2026. The Rajya Sabha passed the Bill the following day, on March 25, 2026.
The Amendment Bill seeks to modify the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. One of the key changes proposed is the removal of the self-identification clause from the 2019 Act. Under the original 2019 Act, a transgender person could self-identify their gender. The amendment replaces this with a more structured recognition process.
Another significant addition is the explicit recognition of socio-cultural identities of transgender persons. This acknowledges the diverse gender identities that exist within Indian society, including Hijras, Aravanis, Kothis, Jogtas, Shiv-Shakthis, and others who have historically been part of India's socio-cultural fabric.
During the parliamentary debate, the Opposition strongly objected to the Bill and demanded that it be referred to a Parliamentary Standing Committee for wider consultation and scrutiny. They argued that such an amendment, which affects a marginalized community, requires broader deliberation. However, the ruling coalition rejected the demand and the Bill was put to a voice vote and passed.
The original 2019 Act had established a framework for protecting the rights of transgender persons, prohibiting discrimination in education, employment, healthcare, and other areas. It had also created the National Council for Transgender Persons. The 2026 amendment is seen as a refinement of this framework, though critics argue that removing self-identification may harm the community's autonomy.