The Lok Sabha has passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, triggering strong reactions from opposition parties and LGBTQIA+ activists. The Bill aims to revise the process of recognizing transgender identity and improve welfare provisions.
Under the amendment, individuals must apply to the District Magistrate for an identity certificate, which will now be issued based on recommendations from a medical board led by a Chief Medical Officer. The government says this will ensure better implementation of welfare schemes and targeted benefits.
The Bill also allows transgender persons to update their first name in official documents using the identity certificate, helping simplify legal recognition.
However, critics argue that mandatory medical verification goes against the principle of self-identification upheld by the NALSA v. Union of India. They believe this could create additional barriers for transgender individuals seeking recognition.
The government has defended the move, stating it will strengthen social security, healthcare access, and protection from discrimination. The Bill will now be taken up in the Rajya Sabha for further discussion.
