The Madras High Court on the 3rd of Febraury firmly objected to the National Medical Commission (NMC) curriculum for using the term “gender identity disorder.” Justice N Anand Venkatesh emphasised that LGBTQIA+ individuals are natural and that their sexual orientation and gender identities are not “disorders.” The court remarked that using such terminology undermines judicial efforts to bring about change.
“Efforts are actually being taken to water it down. The fact that you’ve used the word gender identity disorder shows the mindset,” Justice Venkatesh said.
The Madras High Court also criticised the NMC for stating that since homosexuality and related topics are taught in schools, they need not be included in the medical curriculum. Justice N Anand Venkatesh questioned this logic, highlighting that schools often consider such topics taboo.
“Which school is teaching this? In fact, in schools, all this is considered to be bad words. I’m stunned. I’m flabbergasted,” he said.
These remarks came after the NMC informed the court about curriculum changes. However, the petitioner argued that the NMC was reverting to its original stance. The petitioner’s counsel noted that a 2022 committee had suggested positive changes, but the NMC failed to incorporate them.
Justice N Anand Venkatesh criticised the NMC for not implementing court recommendations to update medical curricula and remove outdated LGBTQIA+ stereotypes. He noted that the NMC has not yet amended regulations to classify conversion therapy as professional misconduct, nor has it notified the new 2023 regulations.
Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu government informed the court that it has proposed two policies for the welfare of transgender and intersex individuals, as well as the broader LGBTQIA+ community. Justice N Anand Venkatesh questioned the need for separate policies and sought a report on challenges in implementing a uniform policy. The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for 17th February.
