Supreme Court Deliberates Transgender Reservation in Medical Courses

The Supreme Court adjourned a plea seeking transgender reservation in postgraduate medical courses. Despite advocacy for reserving specific seats, the court noted no urgency as PG admissions counselling hadn't started. The case highlights the need for clarity on reservation policies, referring back to a landmark 2014 judgment.

The Supreme Court on Thursday postponed a decision concerning a plea advocating for reserved seats for transgender candidates in postgraduate medical courses. The case, expected to resume next week, underscores the complexities involved in extending reservation benefits to the transgender community.

Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran chose to delay an immediate ruling, citing that counselling for PG courses had yet to commence. This decision followed senior advocate Indira Jaising's request to leave seats vacant for transgender petitioners under both all India and state quotas, which the bench deemed unnecessary at present.

The plea aligns with the 2014 NALSA judgment, which affirmed transgender rights, including access to affirmative action. As the hearing progresses, the court will delve into issues like whether transgender quota should be horizontal, affecting all categories, and contending conflicting high court orders on transgender reservations.

(With inputs from agencies.)