The Indian Armed Forces are exploring potential employment opportunities for transgender individuals in defence roles, aiming to implement the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 within the military. A joint study group, led by a senior officer from the Directorate General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), has been established by the Principal Personnel Officers Committee (PPOC) to address this matter.
Reportedly, high-ranking officials have acknowledged the necessity for substantial structural, administrative, and cultural adaptations within the armed forces before initiating the inclusion of transgender individuals.
Discussions within the Army Adjutant General’s branch have included suggestions such as refraining from granting concessions to transgender individuals in recruitment, training, posting, and other aspects. Currently, the Armed Forces do not enlist transgender individuals or individuals identifying as homosexuals.
In a notable incident in 2017, the Indian Navy discharged Sabi Giri (previously known as Manish Kumar Giri) after undergoing sex reassignment surgery at a private facility.
The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019, was passed in the Rajya Sabha on November 26, 2019. This Act prohibits discrimination against transgender individuals, encompassing various aspects such as education, employment, healthcare, access to public facilities, housing rights, opportunities for public or private office, and access to government or private establishments responsible for transgender persons’ care or custody.