Hyderabad Central Prison Sets Up Gender-Neutral Cell Following NHRC Intervention

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has announced that a gender-neutral cell has been established at Central Prison, Hyderabad, for persons with diverse gender identities and expressions, following its intervention. The prison authorities have also permitted gender-affirming clothing for inmates accommodated in the facility.

The development aims to safeguard the dignity, privacy and human rights of transgender persons and other gender-diverse individuals housed in correctional institutions. It is intended to provide suitable accommodation while addressing the challenges they may face in conventional prison arrangements.

The initiative followed a visit to Central Prison on October 8 by the NHRC's Special Monitor, who is entrusted with matters concerning transgender persons and the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. During the visit, the official emphasised the implementation of advisories issued by the NHRC and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to ensure the welfare and protection of transgender inmates.

In its compliance report submitted to the Commission, the Superintendent of Central Prison, Hyderabad, confirmed that the recommendation to establish a gender-neutral cell had been implemented. Besides the new accommodation arrangement, prison authorities have also permitted inmates to wear clothing that aligns with their gender identity.

The gender-neutral cell is intended to function as a separate, gender-sensitive accommodation facility within the existing prison premises. This does not mean that male, female and transgender prisoners will be housed together in the same residential block. Instead, the arrangement seeks to provide transgender and gender-diverse inmates with appropriate living facilities while respecting their identities and individual requirements.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has previously issued guidelines advising prison administrations to ensure suitable accommodation for transgender prisoners, along with appropriate toilet and bathing facilities. The recommendations also stress protection against discrimination, exploitation and harassment. At the same time, authorities have been cautioned against allowing separate accommodation to result in the complete isolation or social exclusion of inmates.

However, the NHRC's latest announcement does not specify the exact location or capacity of the newly established cell. It also does not clarify whether its occupants will share dining halls, recreational spaces or other common facilities with the remaining prisoners.