Transgender rights in India have gained significant attention and momentum in recent years. The Hon'ble Supreme Court of India's landmark NALSA judgement in 2014 recognized transgender persons as a third gender, affirming their rights to self-identify and challenging entrenched social norms. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act was enacted in 2019 to safeguard the rights of transgender persons and promote their welfare. Despite legislative progress, challenges persist regarding enforcement, social acceptance, and living with dignity. Advocacy and activism continue to play a crucial role in fostering dialogue and striving for a more inclusive society. The journey toward equality and acceptance for transgender persons in India is ongoing with implications for broader societal change. KEY ASPECTS INCLUDE: - Recognition of Third Gender: The NALSA judgement laid the groundwork for transgender rights in India. - Legislative Protections: The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act aims to protect transgender individuals from discrimination and promote welfare. - Constitutional Rights: Transgender persons are entitled to Fundamental Rights under the Constitution of India. - Challenges: Enforcement, social stigma, and limited awareness of rights remain significant issues. - Advocacy: Continued activism is essential for promoting inclusivity and addressing challenges faced by transgender individuals.
Kundu et al. (2025) studied this question.