The Lok Sabha passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, introducing a revised identity certification process involving District Magistrates and medical boards. The move has triggered opposition from political parties and LGBTQIA+ groups over concerns about self-identification rights.

Bullets

• Lok Sabha passed the Transgender Persons Amendment Bill 2026 amid protests from opposition leaders and LGBTQIA+ activists.
• The bill revises the process for recognising transgender identity through official certification mechanisms.
• Individuals must apply to the District Magistrate to obtain a transgender identity certificate.
• Certification will be issued based on recommendations of a medical board led by senior medical officials.
• The government says the system will improve welfare delivery and ensure proper identification.
• The bill allows change of first name in official documents based on the issued identity certificate.
• Critics argue mandatory medical verification violates the right to self-identification.
• The 2014 Supreme Court NALSA judgment recognised gender identity as a matter of personal autonomy.
• Activists warn the process may create barriers and discourage individuals from seeking legal recognition.
• The bill will now move to the Rajya Sabha for further debate and consideration.