Haryana rights panel seeks report on denial of school recognition to transgender founder
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Commission says complainant’s case aligned with broader struggles of the transgender community in India
Author Saurabh Malik
The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has sought a report from the Director-General, Elementary Education, Haryana, on the alleged denial of recognition to a school established by a transgender person despite fulfilling most of the required norms.
Taking cognizance of the matter, Chairperson Justice Lalit Batra observed that the case raised serious concerns regarding discrimination and violation of fundamental rights, including those guaranteed under the Right to Education Act, 2009, and the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
In her complaint to the Director-General with an endorsement to the commission, the complainant stated that she had applied for recognition of her school, which provides free education to underprivileged children while charging a nominal tuition fee of Rs 250 per month from the rest.
Despite her institution meeting the necessary conditions, her application had not been processed. She further annexed a list showing that certain other schools with lesser area had been granted recognition, raising questions about the fairness of the process.
“The denial of recognition to a school founded by a transgender person raises concerns about the right to education. India’s Right to Education Act, 2009, guarantees free and compulsory education to all children aged six to 14, irrespective of their background. Discriminatory practices that hinder the establishment of educational institutions by marginalized communities violate this fundamental right,” Justice Batra observed.
Expressing concern over systemic biases, Justice Batra asserted: “Despite fulfilling most of the norms for recognition of school, raising objections by authorities concerned suggests systemic discrimination against transgender persons.”
The commission added that the complainant’s case aligned with the broader struggles of the transgender community in India, where “societal biases often impede their access to education, employment, and other fundamental rights.”
Justice Batra added the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, explicitly prohibited discrimination in education, employment, occupation, healthcare, and other areas.
Referring to the National Human Rights Commission’s advisory on transgender welfare, the commission reiterated the directive that the “State must prioritize skill development training and better occupational opportunities for transgender persons.”
Before parting with the order, Justice Batra asked the Director-General to submit a detailed report on the matter by February 25, when the issue will be taken up before the Full Commission.
Courtesy : The Tribune
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