The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Union of India to file its counter-affidavit in a PIL concerning the legal recognition and protection of intersex persons, individuals born with congenital variations in sex characteristics (Differences of Sex Development/DSD).

The matter was listed before the bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana.

During today’s hearing, the Bench sought the Union’s response to the issues raised in the petition. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Union, submitted that he would take instructions on the matter.

The Court directed the issue of notice on the remaining respondents, noting that some respondents had not yet been served. It directed that the unserved respondents be served before the next date.