Transgender Persons Bill Sparks Row Among Activists, Opposition Says Bill Not “Comprehensive” Enough

The passage of Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019 in Rajya Sabha has sparked a new row as activists are calling November 26, the day of passage, as “Gender Justice Murder Day”. The bill aimed at protection of rights of transgenders was introduced in Lok Sabha on August 5 this year. Moreover, the activists are of the view that the bill takes away the right of transgenders to determine their own sex. Activists have alleged the present govt of subverting democratic ethics and keeping trend of passing bill after bill despite opposition’s reservations.

The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019, seeks to provide a mechanism for social, economic and educational empowerment of transgenders. It was moved for consideration and passage in the Rajya Sabha by Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot on November 20.

Gehlot highlighted the provisions in the bill saying that the bill aims at eliminating discrimination against transgenders. He ensured that the government will form a national council for its implementation after the legislation is brought into effect.

However, the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha said the bill concerning transgenders is not “comprehensive” enough and had demanded it to be sent to a select panel for further scrutiny.

On the other hand, BJD supported the bill as Amar Patnaik suggested that a maximum penalty proposed in the bill is only two years, while it is 7 years for sexual harassment on women. The penalties should be more. On the other hand, Congress member Husain Dalwai said penalty proposed in the bill is less and it needs to be changed. Even pension should be given.

(With PTI inputs)