The Centre asked state governments to ensure that members of the LGBTQ community lodged in jails are able to meet the person of their choice without any discrimination under their rights.

In a letter to all state governments, the Union Home Ministry said that it has been the constant endeavour of the Centre to remain in touch with all states and union territories and share contemporary guidelines and best practices on various aspects of efficient prison administration and management.

The ministry said it has come to its notice that LGBTQ members are often discriminated against due to their gender identity and often face violence and disrespect.

The ministry, in the letter, asked the state governments to ensure that such members are not discriminated against in terms of facilities, particularly visitation rights in prisons, which are available to the general public.

According to the letter, the Home Ministry has prepared the 'Model Prison Rules, 2016' and the 'Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act 2023' and these should be followed by all state governments and union territories.

The letter said, “It is reiterated that these provisions apply equally to 'LGBTQ' members also and they can meet the person of their choice without any discrimination or judgement.