Politics · India Bureau
Andhra Pradesh declines to defend transgender rights law amendments in court
The NDA-ruled state has told the Supreme Court it played no role in enacting the controversial amendments to the Transgender Persons Act, while Uttarakhand argues the law benefits the community.
LSN India ·
Andhra Pradesh has declined to defend changes made to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, stating before the Supreme Court that the state had no involvement in enacting the central legislation. The state further argued that it has not undertaken any action that discriminates against transgender persons, according to court filings.
The position marks a significant stance as the NDA-governed state distanced itself from the amendments that have drawn criticism from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups. By clarifying that the law was enacted at the national level, Andhra Pradesh sought to limit its legal liability in defending the provisions under judicial scrutiny.
In contrast, Uttarakhand has mounted a defence of the legislation, contending that the amended law is beneficial to the transgender community. The state's position reflects differing approaches among NDA-ruled administrations on the contentious legislation.
The Supreme Court is examining various aspects of the Transgender Persons Act following petitions challenging specific provisions. The case has drawn attention to implementation practices across states and their treatment of transgender rights and protections under the law.