Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury criticized the Union government during a Rajya Sabha discussion on the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026. She likened the bill to a discriminatory exercise rather than a protective measure. The Lok Sabha had passed the bill through a voice vote, prompting its consideration in the Upper House.
Chowdhury questioned the validity of MPs’ self-identification of gender when filling official forms before entering Parliament. She highlighted that the Constitution supports transgender individuals and referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s self-identification as non-biological. Despite triggering a reaction, she clarified that her comments were not meant as criticism but as acknowledgment of the PM’s progressive stance.
The Congress MP emphasized the presence of transgender individuals in various sectors and questioned the necessity of imposing new laws on them. She criticized the Amendment Bill for shifting from self-identification towards increased bureaucratic and medical scrutiny, undermining the community’s rights. Critics argue that the bill deviates from the Supreme Court’s 2014 NALSA judgment on self-perceived gender identity.
Opposition members expressed concerns during the debate, fearing that the bill could erode constitutional protections and create obstacles for marginalized groups. In contrast, the Union government defended the amendments, stating they aim to enhance clarity and welfare measures for transgender persons. The discussion is expected to intensify as the House proceeds with a detailed review of the bill.
