In a significant move toward addressing discrimination against transgender individuals in the workplace, the Supreme Court of India has taken up the case of a transgender teacher who faced termination from her job in Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat states.

The petitioner, Jen Kaushik, found herself at the center of a legal battle after revealing her gender identity, which led to her removal from her teaching position. Private schools in both Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat terminated her employment upon learning about her transgender identity, prompting Kaushik to seek justice through legal channels.

During the hearing, the bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud said, "Something needs to be done for the teacher, as soon as she comes to work, she is removed from the job, only because she is transgender, and she is asked to go from one state to another. We will hear this for final disposal next Monday." Earlier, the top court had sought responses from the principals of a school in Jamnagar, Gujarat, and another private school in Khiri, Uttar Pradesh.

Kaushik's lawyer presented compelling arguments, detailing the discrimination and harassment she endured as a result of her gender identity. Despite her qualifications and capabilities as an English teacher, Kaushik faced rejection and exclusion from the educational institutions where she sought employment.

The petitioner highlighted how she was given appointment letters in both Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, only to be removed from her position after her gender identity became known. This pattern of discrimination underscores the challenges faced by transgender individuals in securing stable employment and being treated fairly in the workplace.

The Supreme Court bench directed the states of Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat to provide responses to the allegations raised in Kaushik's petition. Additionally, the court called for comprehensive arguments from both states, signaling its intent to address the matter expeditiously.