The Delhi government has taken a significant step towards inclusivity with the announcement that Transgender people can travel Free on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and Cluster buses. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal emphasized that all people, regardless of gender identification, should have equal rights and dignity. The proposal will shortly be approved and put into action by the Cabinet.
This action was taken about a year after transgender person Amit Juyal petitioned the Delhi High Court to have the Transgender Community recognized legally as the “Third Gender“. Thanks to the ‘Free Travel Program for Women’, which started in October 2019, ladies already enjoy free travel on these buses in the nation’s capital.
The Transport Department will gather information on the quantity of Transgender Identification Cards granted in the Capital and run awareness campaigns in order to encourage more Transgender Community members to enroll for Free DTC Bus Passes. In order to determine criteria for issuing “Third Gender” passes and to analyze the number of transgender individuals, the agency hopes to collaborate closely with each District Magistrate.