New Delhi, In a significant order upholding the rights of the transgender community, the Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Police to provide necessary security to a transgender individual intending to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections from the South Delhi Parliamentary Constituency.
The order came in response to a petition filed by the transgender candidate, who claimed to have suffered a life-threatening attack on April 12, 2024, at their office in Badarpur. The petitioner had lodged a complaint with the Commissioner of Police, Delhi, and also requested the Election Commission of India (ECI) on April 14 for security to contest the polls, but received no response.
During the hearing, the court observed that Article 14 of the Constitution ensures equal protection of laws, including participation in the election process, and any discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity impairs equality before the law and violates Article 14.
The court stated that the duty lies with the State to safeguard and enforce the rights of transgender individuals guaranteed under the Constitution. Acting on the statement made by the Additional Standing Counsel (ASC) for the State, the court disposed of the petition with directions to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) to provide necessary security to the petitioner for filing the nomination form from the South Delhi Parliamentary Constituency.
The court further directed the concerned Station House Officer (SHO) to share their mobile number with the petitioner for the aforementioned purpose.
Additionally, the ASC for the State was directed to ensure that the outcome of the complaint filed by the petitioner is communicated within two weeks. The landmark order underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rights of the transgender community and ensuring their equal participation in democratic processes.
