India's Supreme Court Reviews Transgender Rights Amendment

The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act, 2026 has come into force in India, introducing provisions that criminalise "undue influence" and "coercion" in assuming a transgender identity. Activists say the ambiguous language could allow police scrutiny of queer spaces, leading NGOs such as Queer Nilayam to report reduced participation, loss of safe venues and difficulties in accessing gender‑affirming health care.

The Supreme Court of India has issued notice to the Centre, all states and Union Territories on a batch of petitions challenging the bill. Petitioners argue the amendment overturns the NALSA judgment by replacing self‑identification with mandatory medical certification, thereby eroding legal recognition and benefits for transgender persons. The bench, headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, has sought responses within six weeks and has raised concerns about possible misuse of reservation and other entitlements meant for the transgender community.