TRANSGENDER PRISONERS MUST BE TREATED AT PAR WITH OTHER INMATES: SC PANEL ON PRISON REFORM

The Supreme Court Committee on Prison Reforms on Thursday stated that Transgender prisoners must be treated at par with other categories of inmates and should enjoy equal rights and facilities.

The committee, headed by former top court judge Justice (retd) Amitava Roy, has recommended its final synopsis of reports filed in the apex court.

The committee emphasized that jail staff and correctional administration at all levels, particularly the guarding personnel, must undergo adequate and regular training to effectively interact with transgender prisoners.

Instances of abuse, harassment, or violence against transgender inmates should be curtailed through workshops and training sessions involving resource persons from academia and civil society.

The panel urged state governments and prison departments to take effective measures to eliminate violence, discrimination, and harm against transgender prisoners.

The panel stated, "Transgender prisoners must be treated at par with other categories of prisoners, and exercise of rights and facilities extended to them (including access to healthcare and medical facilities) must be at par with the latter."