The controversial Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill has sparked a nationwide debate, drawing sharp criticism from activists, legal experts and Opposition leaders. Among the most vocal critics in Parliament was Jaya Bachchan, who opposed the Bill in the Rajya Sabha and urged the government to meaningfully include transgender voices in the lawmaking process.
She underscored the cultural and social presence of transgender communities in India, while stressing that symbolic respect must translate into real representation and rights.
What did Jaya Bachchan Say?
During her speech, the veteran actress and Samajwadi Party MP said, “This community, which we are discussing, has been immensely blessed by Ramji. He had said that on every special occasion, the presence of transgender persons would make the event auspicious. As per our customs, they visit homes during special occasions such as childbirth to offer blessings, which are considered auspicious. We need representation of this community in both Houses. Make one among them a nominated member. Listen to their difficulties, pain, and struggles before bringing such a Bill to the House.”
Earlier, after the Supreme Court’s ruling in NALSA v. Union of India, people had the right to identify their own gender without needing medical proof. The new Bill is being criticised because it may limit who can be recognised as transgender and could require approval from authorities or medical checks. It limits regal recognition mainly to certain traditional communities, such as hijras and kinners, as well as individuals with particular congenital biological variations.
The Bill also suggests that individuals may need medical checks or an approval process to be officially recognised as transgender, which many say goes against the idea of self-identification. The actress pointed out that this bill excludes trans men, trans women, and non-binary individuals from legal protections. She then stated that the medical boards appointed by the state could subject transgender persons to invasive assessments, which undermines their dignity.
“This Bill takes away the right to self-identification, which was a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court in 2014,” added Bachchan. Following the Bill’s passage, protests have been reported in different parts of the country.
Also Read: Editor’s Take: Jaya Bachchan, A Quiet Riot of Authenticity
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