New Delhi (PTI): A bill seeking to provide a precise definition of the term "transgender" and provide graded punishments that reflect the gravity of the harm inflicted upon such persons was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Friday.

The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill was introduced by Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Virendra Kumar.

It notes that it is imperative to give a precise definition for proper and definitive identification and protection of transgender persons, to whom the benefits of the present law must reach.

The protection and benefits that are provided under the present law are vast in nature, and therefore, care has to be taken that "such identification cannot be extended based on any acquirable characteristics or personal choice or claimed self-perceived identity of an individual".

The Bill also contains provisions for "designation of an authority" which will have the option to seek "expert advice" if required.

The draft law also seeks to empower transgender persons to make consequential changes in official documents.

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Manali (HP) (PTI): Three tourists died while 10 others suffered serious injuries when their tourist tempo traveller skidded off the road and fell into a gorge in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district on Saturday night, police said.

According to the District Disaster Management Authority, about 20 people were on board, and the vehicle was returning from Jalori Pass.

Preliminary reports suggest that the tourist vehicle skidded off the road due to slippery conditions created by incessant rains while descending toward Bhuntar on the 15 km stretch.

As many as 10 tourists have been rescued, and the condition of one of them is critical. Three tourists died on the spot.

Police, fire service personnel, and local administration are jointly conducting rescue operations.

The tourists were staying in a hotel in Jhibi, about 10 km away from Banjar town, where the accident occurred.

The injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals, officials said.

Further details are awaited.