Same household for ration cards, joint bank account - Centre lists measures for LGBTQ+ couples

New Delhi, February 4 (PTI) — The central government on Tuesday introduced several significant steps aimed at enhancing the welfare and rights of the LGBTQ+ community, including provisions that will allow queer partners to open joint bank accounts, be recognized as a single household for ration cards, and access better healthcare services.

Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, BL Verma, highlighted these initiatives in a written response to a query in the Lok Sabha. The measures span multiple sectors, with key improvements focused on food distribution, financial services, healthcare, and legal protection.

Key Measures for the LGBTQ+ Community​

Among the notable initiatives, Verma announced that the Department of Food and Public Distribution has issued an advisory to all states and Union Territories (UTs). This directive ensures that partners in a queer relationship are recognized as part of the same household when applying for ration cards. Additionally, it mandates that such couples should not face discrimination in acquiring these essential documents.

On the financial front, Verma confirmed that there are no restrictions on LGBTQ+ individuals opening joint bank accounts or nominating their partners as beneficiaries. He referred to an advisory from the Department of Financial Services, which states that queer partners can be nominated to receive the balance in the event of the account holder’s death.

Healthcare, Legal Protections, and Support​

In the healthcare sector, Verma outlined steps by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to protect LGBTQ+ rights. This includes measures to ensure access to sex reassignment surgeries, the prohibition of conversion therapy, and the integration of sensitization programs into medical curricula. Additionally, the ministry has called for enhanced teleconsultation services for LGBTQ+ individuals.

The government has also set up guidelines for medical interventions concerning infants and children with intersex traits, aiming to safeguard their well-being. Prison visitation rights for LGBTQ+ individuals have also been addressed in the new framework.

Ensuring Safety and Legal Rights​

The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued an advisory to states and UTs, outlining law and order measures to prevent violence, harassment, or coercion against queer individuals. These steps are intended to ensure that LGBTQ+ persons are protected from mistreatment and that their dignity is respected.

Transgender Rights and Protection​

For transgender individuals, the government highlighted the passage of The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, alongside the creation of the National Council for Transgender Persons to guide policy decisions.

Moreover, a national portal has been launched for transgender persons to issue certificates and identity cards, further streamlining access to essential services. The government has also established transgender protection cells in 13 states, focused on monitoring crimes and providing support to transgender individuals.

A Commitment to LGBTQ+ Rights​

These comprehensive measures reflect the government's ongoing commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of the LGBTQ+ community across India. Verma concluded by reiterating that the steps taken aim to create an inclusive, non-discriminatory environment for all citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

This announcement represents a critical advancement in the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in India, ensuring that they receive the same access to services, protections, and opportunities as any other citizen.