Centre says 2026 law does not invalidate identity cards already issued to transgenders
The Indian Union government has assured the Supreme Court that transgender identity cards issued before the 2026 Amendment Act will remain valid. This follows concerns from activists that the new law might retrospectively invalidate existing documentation and undermine the right to self-identification.
Why it matters
The legal status of these identity cards is crucial for protecting the rights and social recognition of the transgender community in India.
The Union government gave an assurance in the Supreme Court on Monday (August 17, 2026) that transgender identity cards issued prior to the enactment of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act, 2026, will continue to remain valid.
Appearing before a three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the validity of these cards would not be affected by the new law.
A transgender identity card provides official recognition of a person’s self-identified gender and can be used to support changes to their name and gender across official records. The government’s transgender portal specifically states that it enables changes to name and gender in official documents.
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