Govt to bring policy for transgenders

March 13, 2015 20:02

Government today said it is planning to bring a policy for transgenders to ensure they get benefits akin reserved communities like SC/STs and is taking steps to see that they get enrolment in schools and jobs in government besides protection from sexual harassment.

Replying to a private member bill in Rajya Sabha, Social Justice Minister Thawaar Chand Gehlot said the government is awaiting better clarity on the definition of transgenders from the Supreme Court to extend welfare schemes for them.

"We have sought clarity on the definition of transgender, homosexuals and bisexuals. There was a problem in the definition. Now, we have placed petition before the Supreme Court seeking clarity on this," he said.

Talking about the bill moved by DMK member Tiruchi Siva, he said the issues raised in it are already covered in the report submitted by an expert committee on this issue.

"Based on the report, we have prepared an action plan. An inter-ministerial panel has been constituted to look into the issue," he said.

He said the government is planning to come out with a national policy for transgenders to ensure they get benefits akin reserved communities like SC/STs. A national welfare board will also be established.

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