New Delhi, March 13 A bill aimed at providing a precise definition of the term "transgender" and prescribe graded punishments commensurate with the harm inflicted on such individuals was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Friday.
The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill was introduced by Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Virendra Kumar.
It emphasizes the need for a precise definition to ensure proper identification and protection of transgender persons, to whom the benefits of the current law should extend.
The protection and benefits provided under the current law are extensive, and therefore, it is crucial that "such identification cannot be based on any discernible characteristics, personal choices, or the self-perceived identity of an individual".
The Bill also includes provisions for the "designation of an authority," which will have the option to seek "expert advice" if required.
The draft law also seeks to empower transgender persons to make consequential changes in official documents.