Archive · 3 Jun 2025
Kerala Court Permits 'Parent' Designation on Birth Certificate
In Kerala, India, a transgender couple can now be listed as 'parents' on their child's birth certificate instead of 'mother' and 'father.'
Zahhad and Ziya Paval, the parents, asked for this change so their child wouldn't have problems later on, like with school or passports.
The court agreed with them.
This means the birth certificate will not specify the parent's gender.
Kerala High Court allows transgender parents to be listed as 'parents' on a birth certificate.
The court ruled on a petition filed by Zahhad and Ziya Paval of Kozhikode.
Zahhad, a trans man, gave birth to their child in February 2023.
The Kozhikode Municipal Corporation previously listed parents as 'father' and 'mother'.
The couple sought the change to avoid complications in the child's future documents.
- Who
- Zahhad and Ziya Paval, the Kozhikode Municipal Corporation, and the Kerala High Court.
- What
- Kerala High Court ruled that transgender parents can be listed as 'parents' on a birth certificate.
- When
- February 2023
- Where
- Kerala, India
- Why
- To avoid complications in the child's future.
Modern Approach
Traditional Rules
Gender Designation
Modern Approach
Birth certificates will now use the term 'parent' to avoid gender-specific roles.
Traditional Rules
Previous birth certificates listed 'father' and 'mother'.
- Court
- Kerala High Court
- Couple
- Zahhad and Ziya Paval
- Location
- Kozhikode, Kerala
- Local Authority
- Kozhikode Municipal Corporation
- Reason for Change
- Avoid future complications
- Key Change
- Gender-neutral 'parent' designation.
Sources
Kerala trans parents allowed to change gender details in child's birth record
HC asks Corporation to change child’s birth certificate as per transgender parents’ requirement
Stabbed on private parts with screwdriver, 19-year-old killed by ‘boyfriend’ in UP