Madras HC calls for revamp of medical edu curriculum to tackle 'LGBTQIA+ phobia'

CHENNAI: Sexual orientations and gender identities of persons who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community are natural; it is not a disorder, the Madras high court (HC) asserted on Monday. While questioning the usage of the term 'gender identity disorder', HC called for a reform in medical education curriculum.

"Somehow, the impression is given that LGBTQIA+ identities are a disorder. Why should we use the term 'gender identity disorder'? It shows the mindset," Justice N Anand Venkatesh said, adding, nature decided to create someone this way.

The court made the observations on a 2021 plea moved by a lesbian couple seeking protection from police torture and opposition from their parents. The judge expanded the scope of the plea to revamp the curriculum in medical colleges to tackle 'LGBTQIA+ phobia' and recognise their legal rights.

Justice Venkatesh censured National Medical Commission for dragging its feet on the court's suggestion to change the curriculum of medical education to do away with outdated notions about the LGBTQIA+ community. The commission is yet to amend its regulations to classify conversion therapy as professional misconduct, as the revised 2023 regulations are yet to be notified, the judge noted.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu govt informed HC that it was proposing to come up with two policies - one for welfare of transgender and intersex persons, and another for persons who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

To this, Justice Venkatesh wondered why the state had decided to come up with two different policies, and directed it to report difficulties, if any, in having a unified policy. Court adjourned the hearing to Feb 17.

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