Tharoor Calls New Transgender Bill “Regressive”

March 23, 2026

New Delhi: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor opposed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, describing it as “deeply regressive.” He stated that this bill could undermine the constitutional rights of the transgender community.

Questions Raised Over Procedure
Although currently away from Parliament due to election preparations in Kerala, Tharoor affirmed that he is keeping a close watch on this issue. He alleged that the bill was introduced surreptitiously, without adequate discussion or consultation with relevant stakeholders.

Allegations of Undermining Existing Legal Framework
According to Tharoor, this amendment weakens the rights-based framework established following the landmark 2014 NALSA judgment, which recognized the rights of transgender individuals.

Objection to Self-Identification of Gender
He specifically expressed concern regarding the provision that seeks to remove an individual’s right to self-identify their gender. In its place, a system involving medical boards and government certification has been proposed—a move Tharoor characterized as an infringement upon personal liberty.

Though I will miss Parliament because of the ongoing #KeralaElections, I am following reports of legislative developments there.

I’m deeply concerned by the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, introduced in the Lok Sabha, which was tabled rather…

— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) March 22, 2026