Delhi Govt Announces Third Gender Category In Job Application, More Provisions

As per the directions of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for the welfare of the transgender community, the Woman and Child Welfare Department (WCD) of the Delhi Government has ordered the installation of an anti-discriminatory cell in every district, the inclusion of a 'third gender' category in job applications, and “all gender” or separate gender washrooms in government offices.

The departments, which include district offices, administration, estate, and others, have been provided with a set of recommendations to ensure the welfare of transgender people in Delhi.

According to government officials, the anti-discrimination cell for transgender people will have three members, and at least one of them should be a woman or transgender.

Third Gender Category In Job Application

Highlighting how transgender people miss out on job opportunities due to disparities in the employment sector, limited health access, and exclusion from social circles The administration block has been ordered to make suitable provision to include “third gender” as an identity category in the job applications for the upcoming vacancies.

A circular issued by the Women and Child Welfare Department (WCD) reads that while verifying the document regarding requirements, the branch functionaries are directed to verify and accept the document in a time-bound manner, even if the name or photo of the transgender person is different from the original documents, provided the candidate has the transgender certificate.

Also, the Estate branch has been directed to write to Delhi Transport Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (DTIDC) requesting it to construct at least one separate washroom in the ISBT building.

Separate Washroom For Transgender People

An official noted that the lack of separate washrooms has been one of the major issues that transgender people face, as there are no separate facilities for government officers or district offices. So, the government has directed the concerned department to make disabled-friendly washrooms and transgender-friendly washrooms. He added that this could be done by marking "T" (transgender) or by using the symbol that refers to “all gender washrooms.”

The ECD has also directed concerned departments to regularly organise sensitization programmes for other employees on sexual orientation and gender identity. Officials stated that the concerned branches are ordered to implement the provisions of the advisory in a time-bound manner and submit the progress report by October 20. It has also asked to submit a final action taken report to the Litigation Branch by November 1, which will then be submitted to the NHRC.

Suggested Reading:The Transgender Community In India And Socio-Economic Conundrum