US SC likely to uphold state bans on transgender athletes in women’s sports
The justices are evaluating claims of sex discrimination lodged by transgender people versus the need for fair competition for women and girls, the main argument made by the states The Supreme Court on Tuesday appeared ready to deal another setback to transgender people and uphold state laws barring transgender girls and women from playing on school athletic teams. The court’s conservative majority, which has repeatedly ruled against transgender Americans in the past year, signaled during more than three hours of arguments it would rule the state bans don’t violate either the Constitution or the federal law known as Title IX, which prohibits sex discrimination in education. More than two dozen Republican-led states have adopted bans on female transgender athletes. Lower courts had ruled for the transgender athletes who challenged laws in Idaho and West Virginia. The legal fight is playing out against the backdrop of a broad effort by President Donald Trump to target transgender Americans, beginning on the first day of his second term and including the ouster of transgender people from the military and declaring that gender is immutable and determined at birth. The justices are evaluating claims of sex discrimination lodged by transgender people versus the need for fair competition for women and girls, the main argument made by the states. Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who coached his daughters in girls basketball, seemed concerned about a ruling that might undo the effects of Title IX, which has produced dramatic growth in girls and women’s sports. Kavanaugh called Title IX an amazing and inspiring success. Some girls and women might lose a medal in a competition with transgender athletes, which Kavanaugh called a harm we can’t sweep aside. The three liberal justices seemed focused on trying to marshal a court majority in support of a narrow ruling that would allow the individual transgender athletes involved in the cases to prevail. A ruling for West Virginia and Idaho would effectively apply to the other two dozen Republican-led states with similar laws. But the justices soon might be asked to decide about the laws in an additional roughly two dozen states, led by Democrats, that allow transgender athletes to compete on the teams that match their gender identity. The outcome also could influence separate legal efforts by the Trump administration and others seeking to bar transgender athletes in states that have continued to allow them to compete. The transgender athletes’ cases In the Idaho case, Lindsay Hecox, 25, sued over the state’s first-in-the-nation ban for the chance to try out for the women’s track and cross-country teams at Boise State University in Idaho. She didn’t make either squad because she was too slow, her lawyer, Kathleen Hartnett, told the court Tuesday, but she competed in club-level soccer and running. Becky Pepper-Jackson, a 15-year-old high school sophomore, was in the courtroom Tuesday. She has been taking puberty-blocking medication, has publicly identified as a girl since age 8 and has been issued a West Virginia birth certificate recognizing her as female. She is the only transgender person who has sought to compete in girls sports in West Virginia. Pepper-Jackson has progressed from a back-of-the-pack cross-country runner in middle school to a statewide third-place finish in the discus in just her first year of high school. Prominent women in sports have weighed in on both sides. Tennis champion Martina Navratilova, swimmers Summer Sanders and Donna de Varona and beach volleyball player Kerri Walsh-Jennings are supporting the state bans. Soccer stars Megan Rapinoe and Becky Sauerbrunn and basketball players Sue Bird and Breanna Stewart back the transgender athletes. In 2020, the Supreme Court ruled LGBTQ people are protected by a landmark federal civil rights law that prohibits sex discrimination in the workplace, finding that sex plays an unmistakable role in employers’ decisions to punish transgender people for traits and behavior they otherwise tolerate. But last year, the six conservative justices declined to apply the same sort of analysis when they upheld state bans on gender-affirming care for transgender minors. Chief Justice John Roberts signaled Tuesday he sees differences between the 2020 case, in which he supported the claims of discrimination, and the current dispute. The states supporting the prohibitions on transgender athletes argue there is no reason to extend the ruling barring workplace discrimination to Title IX. Idaho’s law, state Solicitor General Alan Hurst, said, is necessary for fair competition because, where sports are concerned, men and women are obviously not the same. Lawyers for Pepper-Jackson argue that such distinctions generally make sense, but that their client has none of those advantages because of the unique circumstances of her early transition. In Hecox’s case, her lawyers want the court to dismiss the case because she has forsworn trying to play on women’s teams. NCAA president Charlie Baker told Congress in 2024 that he was aware of only 10 transgender athletes out of more than a half-million students on college teams. But despite the small numbers, the issue has taken on outsize importance. Baker’s NCAA and the US Olympic and Paralympic Committees banned transgender women from women’s sports after Trump, a Republican, signed an executive order aimed at barring their participation. About 2.1 million adults, or 0.8 per cent, and 724,000 people age 13 to 17, or 3.3 per cent, identify as transgender in the US, according to the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law. A decision is expected by early summer. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) AP Washington Courtesy : Business Standard Note: This news is originally published on https:/businessstandard.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Indian Tourist Beaten By Transgender Group In Pattaya After Payment Row, Video Viral
After Raj was injured, a formal complaint was filed, prompting legal action. However, Jasuja has not yet made any public statement regarding the matter. An Indian tourist was assaulted by a group of transgender women in Thailand’s Pattaya following an alleged dispute over payment for sexual services, according to local reports. The incident took place in the early hours of December 27 and was captured on camera. Pulled Out of Car, Beaten in Public The victim, identified as 52-year-old Raj Jasuja, was reportedly dragged out of his car and beaten after he refused to pay the agreed amount. The assault occurred on a public road, with footage of the incident later circulating online. Victim Hospitalised With Injuries Jasuja sustained injuries to his face and head during the attack and was subsequently admitted to hospital for treatment. Details regarding the extent of his injuries were not immediately available. Attacks On Indians On The Rise Lately, attacks on Indian tourists have been on the rise in Pattaya. Pongpol Boonchid, a 19 year-old told police that the quarrel escalated when the two began chasing each other and a physical attack ensued. After Raj was injured, a formal complaint was filed, prompting legal action. However, Jasuja has not yet made any public statement regarding the matter. Several such disputes have been occurring between Indian tourists and transwomen sex workers in Pattaya in recent months. Previously, in September an Indian man was attacked, and in October three transwomen were also accused of assaulting two Indians and fleeing with nearly 24,000 baht in cash. By Sagarika Chakraborty About the author Sagarika Chakraborty Sagarika Chakraborty is a Senior Copy Editor at ABP Live English, where she handles business coverage and key developments in general news, while also actively chasing breaking stories. With a foundation in advertising, she transitioned into journalism to craft in-depth stories and explainers on the economy, real estate, and personal finance. She also engages in interviews and podcasts, bringing out expert insights. Courtesy : abp live Note: This news is originally published on https:/abplive.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Indian Man, 52, Beaten On Road Over ‘Unpaid Sex Service’ By Transgender Women In Thailand
The viral video shows a tense situation escalating when the women demanded money from the Indian tourist who allegedly declined to pay. An Indian tourist became the centre of a violent confrontation in Thailand’s Pattaya after he allegedly refused to pay for sexual services that left him injured. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of December 27, was caught on camera and shows the man being beaten by a group of transgender women in a public area. According to a report in Thaiger, the Indian national has been identified as 52-year-old Raj Jasuja. The video shows a tense situation escalating when the women demanded money from Jasuja who reportedly declined to pay. Transgender Women Beat Indian Man In Thailand In the video, three transgender women can be seen confronting Jasuja allegedly over payment for sexual services. When he attempted to leave in his car, one of the transgender women blocked the door to prevent him from driving away. With the assistance of a man nearby and some bystanders, the group pulled Jasuja out of the vehicle. He was then repeatedly kicked and struck by the group before emergency responders arrived at the scene. “No Money, No Honey.” Eyewitness Account As per the report, a local witness, 19-year-old Phongphon, told rescue workers that he saw Jasuja arguing with a transgender sex worker near the entrance to the walking street. The argument escalated and according to the witness, the woman then summoned several friends to assist her. Rescue And Medical Attention Rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Dhammastan Foundation received a report at around 5:30 AM after which they immediately rushed to the scene. They found Jasuja with injuries to his face and the back of his head. He was administered first aid at the scene before being shifted to Pattamakom Hospital for further treatment. “Free s*x services give injuries.” What Are People Saying Online The video circulated online and received hundreds of comments with one user writing, “My guy really thought not paying was gonna work out fine.” Another said, “Well deserved,” while someone else remarked, “Someone’s husband and father btw.” Ariana Grande, Amanda Seyfried, Ethan Hawke, Kristen Bell Arrive At The Critics’ Choice Awards; N18G New Parents Sidharth Malhotra & Kiara Advani Glow As They’re Spotted Together Police Response Police later informed the We Love Pattaya Facebook page that they would request Jasuja to file a formal complaint once he fully recovers, Thaigar reported. Further investigation will then proceed according to Thai law. Curated By : Buzz Staff Courtesy : News18 Note: This news is originally published on https:/news18.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Riley Gaines takes bold stand to attend Supreme Court hearings on transgender athlete participation in women’s sports
Riley Gaines has once again stepped into the national spotlight. The former collegiate swimmer announced that she plans to attend two major Supreme Court hearings that could shape the future of women’s sports in the United States. The cases focus on whether states can legally restrict transgender athletes from competing in women’s categories. Gaines said the upcoming decisions are extremely important. She believes the rulings will determine whether laws designed to protect women’s sports are constitutional. The hearings involve laws from West Virginia and Idaho. Both cases have drawn national attention and sparked strong opinions on fairness, safety, and equal opportunity in sports. Riley Gaines backs state laws and supports female athletes speaking out — riley_gaines_ (@riley_gaines_) Riley Gaines confirmed she will be present at the Supreme Court in two weeks for the hearings of West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox. She explained that these cases will decide if states are allowed to protect women’s sports under the Constitution. Gaines also encouraged her supporters to make their voices heard by signing a related petition. The West Virginia case centers on a state law that prevents transgender girls from competing in female sports categories. A middle school athlete named Becky challenged the law, arguing that it violates constitutional rights and Title IX protections. Becky has reportedly been on medication since the start of puberty. Gaines believes the case will have a major impact on youth and school sports nationwide. The second case, Little v. Hecox, involves Idaho’s HB 500 law. This law banned transgender athletes from women’s sports. Lindsay, a transgender college student at Boise State University, was affected by the rule and challenged it in court. The Supreme Court agreed to review both cases. In addition to her legal advocacy, Gaines recently voiced strong support for San Jose State University volleyball player Brooke Slusser. In a Fox News interview, Slusser shared the emotional stress she faced after learning a transgender athlete, Blaire Flemming, was competing on her team. Gaines accused the school of failing to inform female athletes about the situation. Gaines said Slusser only spoke up after realizing she had been living with and sharing hotel rooms with a biological male during team trips. She added that Slusser eventually left school and returned home due to concerns for her safety and mental health. Gaines described the situation as abusive. Slusser later revealed that the experience deeply affected her health. She said the stress led to an eating disorder and caused her to temporarily lose her menstrual cycle. Gaines continues to argue that these stories highlight why women’s voices must be central in discussions about sports policies. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
‘Matter of deep concern’: MEA reacts to US strikes on Venezuela; urges restraint, calls for dialogue
NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs on Sunday reiterated India’s support for the safety and well-being of people in Venezuela as the situation in the country remains tense amid US strikes.”Recent developments in Venezuela are a matter of deep concern. We are closely monitoring the evolving situation,” the MEA said in a statement. “We call upon all concerned to address issues peacefully through dialogue, ensuring peace and stability of the region. The Embassy of India in Caracas is in contact with members of the Indian community and will continue to provide all possible assistance,” it added. This comes after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured in Caracas and flown out of the country in a joint operation involving intelligence agencies and US law enforcement, triggering heightened tensions and uncertainty. The ministry of external affairs had earlier advised Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Venezuela amid the unfolding developments. Donald Trump said that Maduro and Flores, captured during what he described as a US military operation, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York on charges of alleged “drug trafficking and narco-terrorism conspiracies” and will face trial. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s Supreme Court has directed Vice President Delcy Rodriguez to assume charge as interim president. Rodriguez, 56, is a senior figure in Venezuela’s socialist leadership and a close ally of Maduro. She has previously served as vice president, finance minister and oil minister, and has played a central role in economic decision-making as the country grappled with US sanctions and surging inflation. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Indian national Raj Jasuja thrashed by transwomen in Thailand after allegedly refusing to pay for escort service
An Indian tourist was hospitalised after he was allegedly attacked by a group of transgender women in Thailand’s Pattaya city following a dispute over payment for sex services, according to the Thaiger.The incident happened on December 27 when rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation received a call at around 5.30am about an injured foreign tourist near the beachside entrance of Walking Street. The victim was identified as 52-year-old Indian national Raj Jasuja, with visible injuries to his face and the back of his head, according to the responders who found him at the scene. He was given first aid before being taken to hospital for further treatment. An Indian man who refuses to pay for a “service” is beaten by a group of trans men in Thailand. pic.twitter.com/oSYav9bjg4 — RadioGenoa (@RadioGenoa) January 3, 2026 A 19-year-old Thai witness, Pongpol Boonchid, told police and rescue workers that the altercation began after Raj was seen arguing with a transgender sex worker near the entrance to Walking Street. The dispute escalated when the two began chasing and hitting each other. According to the witness, the transgender woman then called several friends, who joined in and assaulted the Indian tourist as a group. The dispute is believed to have started over money, after the tourist allegedly did not pay the full amount agreed for the service. Raj has not spoken publicly about what happened. Police later told local media that officers would ask the injured tourist to file a formal complaint once he had fully recovered, after which a legal investigation would proceed. Similar incidents involving Indian tourists and transgender sex workers have been reported in Pattaya in recent months, according to the Thaiger. In September, an Indian man was attacked after allegedly touching a transgender woman without consent during a dispute over services. In another case in October, three Thai transwomen allegedly assaulted two Indian nationals at a hotel following an argument over payment and fled with cash worth around 24,000 baht. Thai police said the investigation is ongoing, with officers checking more witness statements and available CCTV footage. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Yogi Adityanath Accuses Opposition of ‘Selective Activism’, Questions Silence on Killing of Dalit Hindu in Bangladesh
Yogi Adityanath has sparked a fierce debate by accusing Opposition leaders and activists of ignoring attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh while vocally protesting violence in Gaza. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has accused Opposition parties and sections of civil society of “selective activism”, alleging they hold candle marches for Gaza but remain silent when Hindus, including a Dalit youth, are killed in Bangladesh. Speaking during the winter session of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly in Lucknow, Adityanath launched a sharp attack on his political opponents, accusing them of double standards on human rights and minority safety. He said many leaders and activists “shed tears for everything that happens in the Gaza Strip” but fail to raise their voices with equal force when Hindus are targeted in neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh and Pakistan. The Chief Minister’s remarks came in the backdrop of reports about a young Dalit Hindu man allegedly killed in Bangladesh amid continuing concerns over the safety of minorities there. Without naming specific parties, Adityanath alleged that Opposition leaders see Dalits “only as a vote bank”, claiming their outrage is calibrated according to political convenience and religious identity. “Is humanity so selective that you will take out candle marches for Gaza, but not utter a single word when a Hindu, a Dalit, is murdered in Bangladesh?” he reportedly asked, urging lawmakers to adopt a more consistent moral stance. According to him, genuine commitment to human rights cannot be confined to one geography, faith or ideology. Call For Assembly Resolution, Pushback From Opposition Adityanath urged the House to pass a formal resolution condemning the alleged killing of Hindus in Bangladesh and to “warn” the Sheikh Hasina government over recurring attacks on religious minorities. Though foreign policy is primarily the Union government’s domain, the Chief Minister argued that state legislatures also have a duty to speak up on issues of basic human rights. Reports from the Assembly said his comments triggered sharp responses from Opposition benches, with leaders accusing the government of selectively spotlighting cross‑border crimes while ignoring hate speech, communal tensions and caste violence within India. Some legislators argued that the ruling party often internationalises atrocities on Hindus, but downplays attacks on Muslims, Christians, Adivasis and other vulnerable groups at home. Opposition voices also questioned whether such statements could strain India’s diplomatic engagement with Bangladesh, a key partner in trade, security cooperation and border management. They maintained that while any attack on minorities is condemnable, these concerns must be addressed through established diplomatic channels and without inflaming communal passions domestically. Civil society reactions have been more varied. Some commentators backed the Chief Minister’s demand for consistent outrage, pointing to repeated reports of temple vandalism, land grabs and targeted assaults on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh. Others cautioned that genuine solidarity must not be reduced to competitive victimhood, where one suffering is invoked primarily to dismiss or relativise another. Background: Minority Safety, Global Conflicts And Protest Culture The debate comes at a time when conflicts in West Asia, especially the ongoing war in Gaza, have drawn large‑scale protests, online campaigns and solidarity events across Indian cities and campuses. Candle marches, teach‑ins and social media campaigns demanding a ceasefire and protection of civilians have been widely reported. Critics of Adityanath’s remarks say such protests are part of a broader global peace movement and not evidence of indifference towards other victims. At the same time, minority rights groups have repeatedly flagged attacks on Hindus, Buddhists and other communities in Bangladesh, especially during times of political instability or communal tension. International watchdogs have documented instances of mob violence, forced displacement and destruction of places of worship. Activists argue that these patterns warrant more sustained international pressure, including from India, to safeguard basic rights. Within India, the conversation around “selective outrage” has become a recurring political talking point. Different sides routinely accuse each other of speaking up only when victims belong to their perceived support base. Whether it is lynchings, custodial deaths, caste‑based atrocities or cross‑border violence, public responses are often filtered through partisan and identity lenses, deepening polarisation rather than fostering a shared human‑rights framework. Adityanath’s intervention in the Assembly taps into this larger narrative. By juxtaposing Gaza protests with attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, he sought to highlight what he views as an imbalance in empathy and advocacy. However, critics warn that framing suffering in competitive terms risks trivialising all victims, instead of building a broader coalition that opposes violence in every context. Syed Muskan Shafiq Courtesy : TLI Note: This news is originally published on https:/thelogicalindian.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Mayawati expresses concern over ‘anti-Hindu incidents’ in Bangladesh
Lucknow: BSP president and former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mayawati on Thursday expressed concern over “anti-India and anti-Hindu incidents” in Bangladesh and urged the Centre to take more effective steps. In a series of posts on her official X handle, Mayawati said, “In recent days, the manner in which antiIndia and anti-Hindu incidents are taking place in Bangladesh makes it necessary for the central government to act with greater alertness and take more effective steps in line with people’s expectations.” She said it is well known that Hindu minorities in neighbouring Bangladesh are being subjected to communal violence and persecution. “The way Hindu minorities in Bangladesh are being harassed by targeting their life, property and religion has created a wave of concern not only in our country but also elsewhere,” she said Referring to the recent killing of a Dalit youth in Bangladesh, the BSP chief said, “The public anger that has erupted on the streets across India over the brutal killing of a Dalit youth there is natural. The Government of India is expected to immediately take proper cognisance of this and play a more active role at every level, which appears to be the need of the hour.” Mayawati alleged that while atrocities, oppression and discrimination against Dalits and tribals had continued in India for centuries, the situation in Bangladesh is no less serious. “Although caste-based hatred, oppression and exploitation against Dalits and tribals continue in our country, the atrocities being committed in neighbouring Bangladesh are extremely painful and a matter of grave concern,” she said. She added that concerns in India over the condition of minorities in neighbouring countries remained constant. She expressed confidence that public support would be with the government on the issue and urged it to pay due attention. Courtesy : THI Note: This news is originally published on https:/thehansindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
UP Assembly: CM Yogi Adityanath Slams Opposition Over Silence On Killing Of Dalit Hindu Youth In Bangladesh
CM Yogi Adityanath slammed the opposition in the UP Assembly over its silence on the killing of a Dalit Hindu youth in Bangladesh, accusing it of appeasement politics and selective outrage, and warning of strict action against infiltrators and illegal activities. Lucknow, 24 December: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while speaking in the Legislative Assembly on an international issue, strongly cornered the opposition. Condemning the incident in Bangladesh, the Chief Minister said that a Dalit Hindu youth has been killed there, yet the opposition has maintained silence. Opposition accused of selective outrage Parties that stage protests and candle marches on issues like Gaza fall quiet when Hindus and Sikhs face atrocities in Bangladesh or Pakistan. The Chief Minister described this as a result of appeasement politics and asserted that atrocities against any innocent Hindu or Dalit are unacceptable. Dalit community treated only as vote bank, CM alleges The Chief Minister said that a Dalit youth has been murdered in Bangladesh, but not a single word has come from the opposition, even as they shed tears over the Gaza Strip. When that youth was killed, their voices were silenced because they viewed the Dalit community merely as a vote bank. Appeasement politics blamed for situation in Bangladesh This is the reality that reflects their policy of appeasement, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. Had Bangladesh and Pakistan not been formed, Hindus would not have been burnt in this manner. If anyone attempted such acts, they would have known the consequences. This is our guarantee of security. Demand for Assembly resolution condemning incident Hindus are being killed in Bangladesh, yet the opposition will not speak. They take out candle marches on the Gaza issue, but when Hindus are killed in Pakistan and Bangladesh, their mouths remain shut. This is their truth. A resolution condemning the Bangladesh incident should be passed, and it should come from the Leader of the Opposition. We condemn this incident. Warning against infiltrators and illegal activities We will show the way out to Bangladeshis and Rohingyas from the state who do not come forward to support them, because you have facilitated votes for many of them. You have also committed the sin of getting Aadhaar cards made for many of them. Keep these facts in mind. Every single matter will be screened. Very effective action will be taken. Strong message on national security and atrocities Living in our country and committing crimes against our people, and committing atrocities against innocent Hindus and innocent Sikhs there this cannot be acceptable. Courtesy : TFPJ Note: This news is originally published on https:/thefreepressjournal.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Yogi flags ‘vote bank politics’ over murder of Dalit in B’desh
Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday attacked the opposition for “shedding tears” over victims of the war in Gaza but not uttering a word for a Dalit youth who was murdered in Bangladesh recently. “This is because of your vote bank politics and communal appeasement,” he said. “A Hindu would not have been murdered and set on fire if Bangladesh did not become Pakistan,” he said, asking the opposition to put forward a censure motion against the Bangladesh incident. Yogi said he hoped the opposition would not protest when illegal migrants from Bangladesh and Rohingya are expelled from the country. He accused the opposition of getting illegal migrants registered as voters. “You have even committed the sin of providing them with Aadhar cards as well,” he said. “Everything is going to be screened soon, and action will be taken accordingly,” Yogi said. Responding to the CM, leader of opposition, Mata Prasad Pandey, said that his party was ready to pass a censure motion on the Bangladesh incident. He also countered the CM, questioning him on how he knew if the youth killed was a Dalit. Pandey categorically pointed out that it was the Indian govt which has given protection to exiled former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights