SRINAGAR: Parliament has passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, with the Rajya Sabha approving it a day after it was cleared by the Lok Sabha amid an Opposition walkout.
The Bill seeks to redefine the category of transgender persons, removes the provision of self-perceived gender identity, and excludes certain socio-cultural identities as well as transmasculine individuals from its scope.
Replying to the debate in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar said the government remains committed to the welfare of the transgender community. He asserted that the legislation includes provisions aimed at empowering transgender persons and ensuring dignity.
The Minister added that the NDA government has undertaken multiple initiatives to integrate transgender individuals into the mainstream and curb discrimination against them.
The passage of the Bill comes amid criticism from Opposition members, who staged a walkout during its consideration in the Lok Sabha.
