The Indian Armed Forces are looking at possible employment opportunities for transgenders and the roles they could perform, while examining the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2019 and its implications.

Talks On In Armed Forces On Possible Entry Of Transgender Persons

A joint study group constituted by the Principal Personnel Officers Committee was tasked with suggesting a way forward for the implementation of the Act in the defence forces. The PPOC is made up of senior officers from all three services as well as the AFMS, the Armed Forces’ tri-service medical organisation. The group was entrusted with discussing the implications of the Act and proposing a course of action for its implementation in the defense forces. It was led by a senior officer in the Directorate General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS).

Some have insisted that transgender people should not be given any special treatment when it comes to training, strict selection procedures, or postings in challenging areas if they decide to join the military. Others have brought up administrative and logistical challenges, such as housing and other infrastructure.

The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2019

•In 2014, the SC in NALSA v. Union of India held that all persons have the constitutional right to self-identify their gender.

•Further, it directed Union and State Governments to allow transgender persons to access reservations in public education and employment.

•Following the judgement and the recommendation of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Justice, the 2019 Act was enacted and came into force.

•The Act is under the overall supervision of the Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India.

Objectives of the Act

•It protects the rights of transgenders and prevents their marginalisation and discrimination in healthcare, education, employment, public services and benefits, among others.

•Thus, the Act is an equal opportunity provider to the transgender community.

Possibilities of Transgender Persons’ Entry in the Armed Forces

•The Armed Forces, at present, do not recruit transgenders or people identifying as homosexuals.

•A report presented by the Standing Committee on Personnel; Public Grievances proposed that the MHA should consider extending reservation benefits to transgender people in the CAPFs.

Possibilities of Transgender Persons’ Entry in the Armed Forces

There have also been questions about how they and their spouses (if any) would be identified in the military and their cultural integration with other serving military personnel. Therefore, multiple issues will have to be factored in before any decision is taken as the military cannot be looked at as just an employment opportunity.