Question

On 15 April, 2014, the Supreme Court of India gave a landmark judgement by giving legal sanction to transgenders as the third gender. Transgenders are an ostracised community that live on the edges of society due to their gender identity. The community faces discrimination at all levels from the society. Identify the fundamental rights of transgenders that might have been violated before this landmark ruling of the Supreme Court.

• A. Right to Equality
• B. Right to Freedom
• C. Right to Constitutional Remedies
• D. Right against Exploitation

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (D)

Right against Exploitation

The fundamental rights of equality, freedom, and the right against exploitation have been violated. Transgenders have been harassed and discriminated against all levels of the society. Due to their gender, they are denied enrollment in educational institutions and employment opportunities. Unfortunately, their lives are encroached upon and are deprived of basic amenities. They mostly earn their livelihood through singing, dancing, begging, or prostitution. Thus, their fundamental rights have long been denied. The SC judgement might go some distance in ensuring a dignified life to the transgender community.