Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 19: Derek O'Brien on Thursday criticised the proposed Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, terming it “draconian” and accusing the government of bypassing proper parliamentary scrutiny.

In a post on X, the Trinamool Congress leader expressed disappointment over the manner in which the bill was introduced, alleging it was done “sneakily” in Parliament.

“Expect no better from a government which has a dubious record of mocking Parliament. Twenty years ago, 6 out of 10 bills would be sent to committees for scrutiny. Now, only 2 out of 10 bills are scrutinised,” O’Brien said.

The amendment bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha, seeks to define the term “transgender” more precisely and proposes graded punishments based on the severity of offences committed against transgender persons.

However, a key provision stating that gender identification “cannot be based on any acquirable characteristics, personal choice, or self-perceived identity” has drawn criticism from rights groups.

Transgender rights activists have strongly opposed the proposed amendments, urging the government to withdraw the bill entirely. They argue that the provisions could undermine the rights, dignity, and identity of transgender individuals.

Critics say the move contradicts earlier progressive steps recognising self-identification and could lead to exclusion and discrimination within the community.

The controversy has sparked a wider debate over the balance between legal definitions and individual rights, with opposition leaders and activists calling for broader consultation before the bill is taken forward.