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I will always remember Dr. Priya Ranjan not only as the Chairman of JK Monitor, but as a mentor, guide and elder brother whose kindness shaped my life and work. Write a tribute at JAMMU: The Law School, University of Jammu in collaboration with the National Institute of Social Defence, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, successfully conducted a one-day workshop focused on the Transgender Persons Act, 2019, and its Rules, 2020. The workshop aimed to showcase intersectionality of issues linked with Transgender rights and their solution via interdisciplinary understanding. The workshop commenced with a formal inaugural session featuring distinguished guests, including Chief Guest Ms. Harvinder Kour, Mission Director ICPS, Department of Social Welfare, J&K; Retired Justice Rajesh Tandon; and Guest of Honor Advocate Pragya Aggarwal from the Supreme Court of India and special guest Prof. (Dr.) K.L. Bhatia.
Dr. Seema Rohmetra, Director, The Law School formally welcomed the guests. Dr. Rohmetra also 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, including Retired Justice Rajesh Tandon, Subash Gupta, Former District and Session Judge & Member, Public Service Commission, and Dr. Hema Gandotra, Associate Professor at the Department of Sociology, JU, discussed the Act’s provisions, judicial engagement, and the intersectional factors affecting transgender inclusion and access to rights. 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.
In the afternoon, a Role-Playing Scenario led by Advocate Nitan Parihar, Founder of Meridian Law Chambers was organised.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. The session was moderated by Dr. Shubha Vats.
An engaging panel discussion followed, with contributions from Retired Justice Rajesh Tandon, Subash Gupta, Advocate Nitin Parihar, and Prof. (Dr.) K.L. Bhatia, Founder Director of The Law School. The panel addressed critical issues such as legal recognition, healthcare access, and societal acceptance of transgender persons. Students actively participated, posing questions and receiving valuable insights from the panellists.
The workshop concluded with Dr. Monika Bhardwaj presenting a detailed report summarizing the day’s discussions. Prof. (Dr.) K.L. Bhatia delivered an emotional speech reflecting on his journey in establishing The Law School, his experiences in Africa, and his critique of the NALSA judgment. He stressed the importance of understanding legal judgments and maintaining educational integrity. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Rajneesh Khajuria. The proceedings of the workshop were conducted by Dr. Monika Narang along with students namely Rudrakshi Bakshi, Palak Gupta, Rupal, Suhani Sharma. Notable among those who graced the occasion as guests include Adv. Prakash Nidhi Sharma, Supreme Court of India, Adv. Vaishnivi Tiwari, Adv. Uma Kapahi, High Court J&K, Adv. Abhay Nidhi Sharma and Dr. PP Singh.
The workshop provided a vital platform for exploring the Transgender Persons Act, 2019, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges in the realm of transgender rights. It underscored the need for continued advocacy and education to address these issues effectively.
