Gauhati HC seeks response on medical needs of Trangender Community in Assam [Read Order]

Gauhati: The Gauhati High Court has issued a significant order, directing the Union Government and the Assam Government to address the medical needs, particularly reconstructive surgery, for the transgender community in Assam.

A Division Bench comprising Justices Suman Shyam and Mridul Kumar Kalita heard a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Swati Bidhan Baruah, highlighting the alleged apathy of authorities in addressing the medical needs of the transgender community.

The court noted that the petition raises concerns about the failure to implement schemes for reconstructive surgery benefits. It observed: “The issue raised in this PIL, reduced to its essence, pertains to the alleged apathy of various authorities in failing to address the medical needs of the transgender community in Assam, particularly in extending the facility of reconstructive surgery.”

Expressing its view on the seriousness of the matter, the court stated: “We are of the view that the concern raised in this petition is of a serious nature and calls for the immediate attention of the concerned authorities. Instead of treating this as adversarial litigation, an effort should be made by all concerned to find ways and means of suitably addressing the grievances of the transgender community within the existing legal framework and in furtherance of the schemes framed by the Central Government and the State Government.”

The court requested the Advocate General of Assam to assist in the matter and directed the Deputy Solicitor General of India to obtain specific instructions on the issues raised.

In conclusion, while emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach, the High Court listed the matter for further hearing on September 26, 2024, seeking responses from the Union and State Governments on addressing the medical needs of the transgender community in Assam.

[Read Order]