Chennai's K Prithika Yashini
is all set to become India's first transgender Sub Inspector of Police after
winning a legal battle at the Madras High Court.
Born and brought up as a boy
named Pradeep Kumar, the young Computer Applications graduate turned into
Prithika after a sex change surgery. But it was an arduous journey for her.
Prithika applied to the
Tamil Nadu Uniformed Services Recruitment Board (TNUSRB) when it called for
applicants to fill 1087 SI posts, but was rejected on the ground she did not
fall under the available two categories of gender. Prithika, however,
was relentless. She filed a series of writ petitions which resulted in
examination cut off marks being lowered from 28.5 to 25 in her case. She also
qualified in all physical tests. Finally
the Madras High Court declared prithika to fit the police force.
"I'm excited. It's a
new beginning for the entire transgender community," said Prithika , who
wants to become an IPS officer.
The bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjay
Kishan Kaul and Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana said they are sure that by the
time the next recruitment process starts, TNUSRB would have taken corrective
measures to include the third gender as a category. The judges also called for
the creation of separate category for transgenders in employment.
"This
verdict is not just my victory, but rather it is a win for the entire
transgender community, ”said Prithika .
The court while
clearing Prithika's appointment said that the social impact of Prthika's
appointment also couldn't be ignored and said it hoped she would carry out
her duties with dedication and commitment to advance the cause of other
transgenders.
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