HC Asks Centre to Include Third Gender in UPSC Exam

Transgender or third gender categories may soon be seen among the gender options on the civil service exam application forms. The Delhi High Court has asked the Centre to make amendments to the rules regarding the gender categories of the UPSC exam application form.

According to SC’s judgment passed on April 15, 2014, transgenders/eunuchs are now legally recognized as the third gender based on which modifications in the gender categories mentioned in the exam is necessary.

Also Read:Kerala Government may Approach Supreme Court Over Medical Admissions

Advocate Jamshed Ansari had filed a PIL challenging the UPSC examination notice of May 23, 2015, asking for the inclusion of transgender/third gender among the gender categories of the application form for the 2015 civil services (preliminary) examination.

The PIL also mentioned that since there was no third gender option, there was aspirant among the transgenders who could not apply for the exam that was conducted on August 23 last year.

Earlier in June, the apex court refused to make changed to its 2014 order regarding transgenders. However, the court clarified that gays, lesbians and bisexuals are not considered as the third gender.

Referring to the ambiguity regarding lesbians, gays and the third gender, the center had sought clarification on the April 2014 verdict.

Efforts are being made at every level to include transgenders in the national mainstream. With the same motive, the apex court has also directed the central government to ensure that the problems faced by the transgenders such as shame, fear, social pressure, etc. are eradicated.