Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act, 2026: A Step Backward for Equality and Human Dignity.
Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act, 2026: A Step Backward for Equality and Human Dignity – Article by Dr. Rahul Kharat The recent assent given by President Droupadi Murmu to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act, 2026 has sparked intense debate across India. While the law claims to streamline recognition and enhance protection for transgender persons, it has been widely criticized by activists, legal experts, and human rights organizations as a regressive and unconstitutional measure . This article critically examines the important provisions of the Act , explains how it is against humanity and the Constitution of India , and suggests reforms necessary to protect the fundamental rights of the LGBTQ+ community . Background: From Recognition to Restriction In 2014, the Supreme Court of India in National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India (NALSA case) recognized transgender persons as the “third gender” and affir...