Punjab & Haryana HC To Now Have Trans-Friendly Restrooms

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has implemented a provision of separate restrooms on its campus exclusively for transgender individuals. These specialised facilities, totalling five restrooms, have been designated at various locations within the High Court premises, according to a report.

A Step Forward

The idea of introducing a separate restroom arrangement for transgender individuals came from advocate Maninderjit Singh in 2021. Singh initiated correspondence with the High Court administration and subsequently with Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud in 2022. His communication highlighted the need for separate restroom facilities for transgender individuals not only in the High Court but also in all judicial establishments and constitutional courts across the nation.

In April, CJI Chandrachud endorsed the establishment of gender-neutral restrooms within the Supreme Court. This decision led to the construction of nine universally accessible gender-neutral restrooms in different sections of the main building and the supplementary building complex of the Supreme Court.

The Other High Courts

Back in February, the Madras High Court issued a directive to the Tamil Nadu government, urging a response to a plea advocating for gender-neutral public restrooms across the State specifically for transgender persons.

Similarly, the Gujarat High Court recently issued a notice to both the Central and State governments in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) petition. This PIL sought the provision of separate restroom facilities for transgender individuals in the state of Gujarat.

Safety Concerns

Transgender individuals may fear for their safety in restrooms that do not match their gender identity. They might experience harassment, verbal abuse, or even physical violence from others who question or oppose their presence. The fear of encountering hostility or being confronted can lead to anxiety and stress for transgender individuals, often forcing them to plan their activities around restroom availability or avoid using public restrooms altogether.

Efforts to address the challenges revolving around restroom facilities for trans people often involve advocating for gender-neutral or inclusive facilities, updating policies and laws to protect transgender individuals' rights to use restrooms consistent with their gender identity, and raising awareness about the experiences and needs of transgender people in public spaces.

Personal views expressed by the author are their own

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