Protests Erupt in Imphal Against Transgender Rights Amendment Bill

Demonstrations in Manipur's Capital

Imphal, Mar 29: On Sunday, protests took place in Imphal, the capital of Manipur, in response to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026. Activists have labeled the proposed legislation as 'regressive' and 'exclusionary.'

Members of the All Manipur Nupi Maanbi Association (AMANA) and other allied organizations gathered to voice their opposition, chanting slogans and displaying placards against the Bill. They argue that it threatens the identity, autonomy, and constitutional rights of transgender individuals.

The protest, organized collaboratively by AMANA, Empowering Trans Ability (ETA), and the All Transmen Association (ATMA), commenced with a flash mob at Mao Market and transitioned to a sit-in at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai, where demonstrations were still ongoing at the time of this report.

In a joint statement, the groups expressed that the amendment 'diminishes dignity, self-determination, and constitutional protections' for indigenous transgender communities. They cautioned that its provisions might prevent many from accessing healthcare, legal recognition, and essential protections.

Concerns were also raised regarding the perceived exclusion of identities from the Northeastern region. While the Bill acknowledges groups like Hijra, Jogta, Kinner, and Aravani, it fails to recognize communities such as Nupi Maanbi and Nupa Maanba, which they describe as a 'systematic erasure' of the region's socio-cultural realities.

Trans group protest held in Imphal 

During a press conference, AMANA Secretary Shanta Khurai contended that the proposed amendment contradicts the Supreme Court’s ruling in NALSA v. Union of India and neglects the unique indigenous transgender identities present in Manipur.

“The Bill limits transgender identities and recognizes only a select few socio-cultural groups like Hijra, Jogta, and Kinner. We are not Kinner or Jogta. While I respect those communities, our experiences in Manipur are distinct. The government must recognize indigenous identities such as Nupi Maanbi and Nupa Maanba,” Khurai stated.

She further criticized the Bill for 'pathologizing' transgender identity, asserting that gender identity is inherently personal and should not be subjected to medical or legal constraints.

“We are not a pathological subject. Gender identity is subjective and diverse. It cannot be confined to rigid categories or defined by a limited group. India is diverse, and its laws should reflect that diversity,” she emphasized.

Khurai indicated that the protests would escalate in the coming days, with plans to challenge the amendment legally while enhancing outreach efforts.

“We intend to file a petition in court. Additionally, we will engage students, civil society, and the broader public through awareness and sensitization initiatives,” she added.

Despite the strong opposition, the protest remained peaceful, with organizers indicating a sustained campaign that combines street mobilization, legal action, and public engagement.

This demonstration occurs amid a growing national discourse regarding the implications of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026.