JU Law School organizes workshop on Transgender Persons Act

Participants of the workshop by JU Law School on Friday.
Participants of the workshop by JU Law School on Friday.

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 9: The Law School, University of Jammu, in collaboration with the National Institute of Social Defence, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, conducted a one-day workshop focused on the Transgender Persons Act, 2019, and its Rules, 2020.
Harvinder Kour, Mission Director ICPS, Department of Social Welfare, J&K was chief guest in the inaugural session while retired Justice Rajesh Tandon , Advocate Pragya Aggarwal from the Supreme Court of India and Prof K L Bhatia were the special guests.
In her welcome address, Dr Seema Rohmetra, Director of The Law School, emphasised to understand the issues of transgender persons from a prismatic perspective.
A major highlight of the session was the release of two important publications: Dr Monika Narang’s book on research designs and methodology, and Dr Nitan Sharma’s edited volume, `A World of Rights: Navigating the Global Landscape of Human Rights’.
In the subsequent session, the focus shifted to the socio-legal dimensions of the Transgender Persons Act, 2019, and its practical implementation. Key speakers, included Retired Justice Rajesh Tandon, Subash Gupta (former District and Sessions Judge & Member, Public Service Commission), and Dr Hema Gandotra, Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology, JU. The session was moderated by Dr. Palvi Mathavan.
A poignant address was delivered by Arnavi Sharma, the University of Jammu’s first transgender artist and activist. Sharma shared her journey from Arnav to Arnavi. She further highlighted the historical and scriptural recognition of transgender individuals, emphasizing their fundamental humanity and rights.
The afternoon featured a role-playing scenario led by Advocate Nitan Parihar, founder of Meridian Law Chambers. This session illustrated the mediation process and its relevance in legal contexts, with participants including Anshika Gandhi, Suhasini Sharma, Kasak Gupta, Hemanya Puri, and Parth engaging in practical exercises.
An engaging panel discussion followed, with contributions from Retired Justice Rajesh Tandon, Subash Gupta, Advocate Nitin Parihar, and Prof K L Bhatia. The panel addressed critical issues such as legal recognition, healthcare access, and societal acceptance of transgender persons.
Dr Monika Bhardwaj presenting a detailed report of the workshop and vote of thanks was presented by Dr Rajneesh Khajuria. Prof K L Bhatia delivered an emotional speech on his journey in establishing The Law School. The proceedings were conducted by Dr Monika Narang along with students namely Rudrakshi Bakshi, Palak Gupta, Rupal, Suhani Sharma.
Adv Prakash Nidhi Sharma, Adv Vaishnivi Tiwari, Adv Uma Kapahi, Adv Abhay Nidhi Sharma and Dr PP Singh also graced the occasion.