Karnataka High CourtTransgender RightsHormone Replacement TherapyTransgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment ActIndian Law
Karnataka High Court Allows Transgender Persons to Continue Hormone Therapy
Published: May 8, 2026
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The High Court of Karnataka has permitted two transgender petitioners to continue their ongoing hormone replacement therapy without interruption, pending the final adjudication of their petitions challenging the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act, 2026. The petitioners, who identify as women, had complained that doctors at a private hospital declined to continue their treatment due to a recent amendment to the Act.
The court's decision was based on the potential harm of interrupting medical treatment, with Justice Sachin Shankar Magadum observing that abrupt discontinuation of hormone replacement therapy may have adverse consequences on the petitioners' physical and mental well-being.
The petitioners' advocate cited a similar interim order from the Kerala High Court, where individuals were permitted to continue hormone therapy with appropriate directions to medical authorities.
The Additional Solicitor General of India informed the court that the issue of the amendment's validity is currently before the Supreme Court, and the Union government may file an application to transfer similar petitions to the apex court.
The court's decision allows the petitioners to continue their hormone replacement therapy as per the existing medical protocol, subject to the final outcome of their petitions and orders from the Supreme Court. The next steps in the case will depend on the Supreme Court's decision on the validity of the amendment and the potential transfer of similar petitions.