Delhi’s Forms Get a Rainbow Upgrade: ‘Third Gender’ Now an Option

Image Source: The Economic Times

The Delhi government declared a landmark measure towards social integration by making the 'third gender' option in every form for government welfare schemes. This action, ordered by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, is designed to provide full accessibility and advantage for transgender individuals and those who have disabilities from diverse state welfare initiatives.

Introduction

In a historic move coinciding with National Transgender Day, the government of Delhi is to make it compulsory for all forms of welfare schemes to have a 'third gender' option in the near future. This follows as part of a larger initiative to ensure dignity, self-sufficiency, and even-handed access for transgender individuals in the capital.

Key Points

Policy Announcement

The Social Welfare Department, at the instruction of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, will ensure that the 'third gender' option is compulsory on all application forms for government welfare schemes.
The policy in particular is aimed at ensuring that transgender persons with disabilities (Divyang) are not left out of government benefits.

Interaction with the Transgender Community

The announcement came after a meeting between Social Welfare Minister Ravinder Indraj Singh and a delegation of transgender representatives on National Transgender Day.
Representatives were drawn from the Lucky Hindustani Foundation, Community Empowerment Trust, and leading trans rights activists like Simran Arora and Dr. Sanajan Simone.

Government Commitments

The government will initiate public awareness campaigns on transgender rights, social inclusion, and welfare schemes available.
A notification on the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules will be issued shortly to further assist the community.

Community Response

Transgender leaders appreciated the move, calling it the first time a government has taken such direct interest and involvement for their self-sufficiency and rights.
There was also celebration of National Transgender Day as a symbol of unity and acknowledgement.

Greater Impact

The initiative will act as a precedent for other institutions and states, emphasizing the significance of official recognition and acceptance of transgender individuals in public well-being programs.

Sources: Indian Express, Economic Times