GS1 – Society
Context:
Tamil Nadu has launched a comprehensive State Policy for transgender individuals to promote dignity, equality, and inclusive access to key social services.
Legal Background:
- Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019: Defines transgender identity.
- NALSA Judgment (2014): Upheld the right to self-identification and ensured constitutional protections for transgender people.
Key Features of the Policy
| Domain | Provisions |
| Social Classification | Transgender persons will be recognised as Socially and Educationally Most Disadvantaged for targeted affirmative action. |
| Right to Self-Identify | Individuals can self-declare gender identity without medical or surgical procedures. |
| Healthcare | Inclusion of trans sensitisation in health curricula and availability of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). |
| Education | Establishment of inclusion committees, nodal officers, and scholarships for re-entry and higher education. |
| Employment | Support through CSR funds, self-employment schemes, and grievance redressal mechanisms. |
| Inheritance Rights | Proposed amendments to the Hindu and Indian Succession Acts to ensure equal inheritance rights. |
| Legal Aid | Provision of free legal assistance and a 24×7 helpline. |
| Housing | Priority access to government housing, rental assistance, and shelters with pattas. |