The government passed an amendment to the transgender law that removes the right to self-identify and asks for medical and bureaucratic checks for legal gender recognition.
In Bihar, delays to state welfare payments have stopped some transgender women from going to their antiretroviral therapy (ART) visits. One woman could not afford the travel costs. Another missed visits after she had to pay rent and had no money. Local health workers and activists also point to identity document gaps, privacy problems at clinics and a lack of staff training.
Difficult words
- amendment — A change or addition to a law
- self-identify — To say your own gender without others' proof
- bureaucratic — Related to official paperwork and procedures
- recognition — Official acceptance of a person's legal status
- antiretroviral therapy — Medicine treatment for people with HIV
- activist — A person who works to change social rulesactivists
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can delays in welfare payments affect a person's ability to go to health visits?
- What could clinics do to protect patient privacy?
- Why is staff training important in clinics that serve transgender people?
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