Are Transgenders Entitled to New Names and Genders in Educational Documents? Manipur HC Ruling

Imphal, Aug 19 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking ruling, the Manipur High Court has mandated that the state's educational boards and institutions provide updated certificates to Beoncy Laishram, recognized as the first transgender doctor in Manipur, reflecting her new name and gender.

The 32-year-old physician, previously known as Boboi Laishram, successfully underwent gender reassignment surgery in 2019 and was officially acknowledged as female by the District Magistrate of Imphal West, in accordance with the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.

Although her Aadhaar, PAN, and voter ID have been updated, requests for changes to her academic and medical registration certificates from the Board of Secondary Education Manipur, Council of Higher Secondary Education Manipur, Manipur University, and Manipur Medical Council were denied.

Justice A. Guneshwar Sharma ruled that under Sections 6 and 7 of the Transgender Act, 2019 and Rule 2(d) of the Transgender Rules, 2020, institutions are legally obligated to acknowledge the updated name and gender of transgender individuals in all official documents, including educational credentials.

The court instructed the Board of Secondary Education Manipur (BOSEM), Council of Higher Secondary Education Manipur (COHSEM), Manipur University, and the Medical Council to issue new documents within a month, while also directing the Chief Secretary to ensure all establishments in Manipur adhere to the Act.

This ruling is viewed as a significant advancement in reinforcing the rights of transgender individuals and guaranteeing their access to education and professional opportunities without prejudice.

Justice Sharma emphasized that transgender persons possess a clear legal entitlement to have their self-identified gender and new name represented in all official documents, as stipulated by the Act.

The court underscored that these regulations must be integrated into the rules and bylaws of all organizations, including educational institutions, to ensure adherence.

The High Court's order noted the provisions of Sections 16 and 17 of the Act of 2019, which require the Central Government to establish a National Council for Transgender Persons led by the Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment to advise on policies and monitor the Act's implementation.

“This Council can also address the grievances of transgender individuals. It is crucial to clarify that the Council's primary role is to advise the Central Government and monitor the Act's execution, rather than serve as a primary adjudicating body,” the High Court's order stated.

Beoncy Laishram's triumph is being celebrated as a symbol of hope for the transgender community in Manipur and beyond.

“This High Court ruling is a powerful affirmation of our identity and rights. It paves the way for others to live with dignity and access opportunities without being forced to approach courts repeatedly,” stated a local transgender activist.