Trans women are women, Indian court rules
The Andhra Pradesh High Court has issued a landmark ruling affirming that transgender women are legally recognized as women in India, irrespective of reproductive ability.
Justice Venkata Jyothirmai Pratapa dismissed the notion that womanhood is defined solely by the ability to bear children, calling it unconstitutional and contrary to fundamental rights.
The case involved a dowry harassment complaint filed by Pokala Shabana, a transgender woman, against her partner and his family.
Although the court ultimately dismissed the case due to insufficient evidence, it firmly established that trans women have the right to protections under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code, which addresses cruelty by a husband or his relatives.
The decision builds on the Supreme Court’s 2014 recognition of a “third gender” and strengthens protections for trans women against domestic violence.
See Blade for more: Indian court rules a transgender woman is a woman
Photo of Prithika Yashini: India's first transgender police officer
