The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has taken a firm stance in ensuring the welfare of transgender individuals in the Union Territory. Expressing dissatisfaction with the authorities’ lack of compliance, the Court has directed them to submit an updated report detailing the progress made in safeguarding the rights and well-being of transgenders.
Highlighting a series of orders issued by the High Court since 2018, the Division Bench, comprised of Chief Justice N. Kotiswar Singh and Justice Moksha Khajuria Kazmi, emphasized the significance of these directives. These orders covered various issues related to the transgender community, including job reservations, educational opportunities, access to medical treatment, and the creation of an inclusive environment in Jammu and Kashmir.
Despite the repeated issuance of these orders and the authorities’ claims of compliance, the Court observed that no tangible progress had been submitted for review. Consequently, in an order dated May 22, 2023, the Court instructed the respondents to promptly provide an updated status report on the extent to which the previously issued directions had been followed. Additionally, the petitioners were directed to submit suggestions for further steps that could be taken to improve transgender welfare, allowing the Court to consider these recommendations while issuing future directives to the authorities.
The case has been listed for further proceedings on July 19, 2023, as the Court seeks to closely monitor the implementation of transgender rights in the Union Territory.
This development comes as a significant step towards upholding the rights and dignity of transgender individuals in Jammu and Kashmir, demonstrating the judiciary’s commitment to addressing their unique challenges and ensuring equal opportunities for their social and economic integration.
