Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced that the state government will soon establish a Transgender Welfare Board. This board will include representatives and executive members from the transgender community.
New Delhi: Taking a significant step for the welfare of the transgender community, the Delhi government has announced the establishment of a Transgender Welfare Board. This announcement was made by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on the occasion of the National Transgender Awards 2025, organized by the International Transgender Akhara.
On this occasion, Union Minister of State S.P. Singh Baghel, MLA Shikha Rai, social workers, and other representatives were also present.
The Chief Minister clarified that this board will work with representatives and executive members of the transgender community, and its primary objective will be to understand the challenges faced by this community and formulate special schemes for their welfare.
Transgender Act 2019: A Historic Step
Rekha Gupta described the Transgender Act, implemented in 2019, as a historic step. She stated that this law not only grants legal identity and rights to the transgender community but also plays a significant role in their social and economic empowerment. The Chief Minister said, "The government's 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' (Together with All, Development for All) is not just a slogan; it reflects a genuine effort towards creating equal opportunities and an inclusive society."
She assured that the Delhi government would take concrete steps to ensure dignity, rights, and opportunities for transgender individuals. Her objective is to make this community self-reliant and provide them with opportunities for active participation in all spheres of society.
Major Challenges Faced by the Transgender Community
The transgender community often faces issues such as discrimination in employment, harassment in the workplace, and a lack of gender-neutral facilities. This leads many to experience mental health challenges. The community states that they require robust laws and safeguards to ensure equal rights and fair opportunities in employment.
The Chief Minister informed that through this board, not only will the community's challenges be understood, but special schemes and facilities will also be prepared for them. Under this, particular attention will be given to schemes related to education, health, employment, and social security. However, the government clarified that the plan for free bus travel for transgender individuals is still awaiting Cabinet approval.
Rekha Gupta stated, "The true meaning of equality and dignity is to bring balance and harmony to humanity. We want the transgender community to be equally respected in society and to be able to demonstrate their participation in every field."
