Nearly a week after the Madurai district police decided to induct six transgenders into the Tamil Nadu Home Guards, 16 of them have evinced interest in joining the service.
On Wednesday, the 16 transgenders met Superintendent of Police V. Balakrishanan and submitted a petition seeking their induction into the Home Guards service. Speaking to The Hindu , Mr.Balakrishnan said, “We have received the curriculum vitae from 16 transgenders for the voluntary service. Those who are found eligible will be considered for recruitment under ‘other category.’ They will be treated on a par with others,” he added.
“Since most transgenders face social boycott and indulge in begging and other acts for their livelihood, we felt this initiative will help them get recognition in society,” he said.
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According to the police, the selected candidates will work for 16 days in a month on payment of a honorarium of Rs.150 a day.
Brinda (21), one of the transgenders aspiring to join the Home Guards service, said, “I thank the State government for giving this opportunity to the transgender community. This will go a long way in helping people like me lead a noble life,” she added.
The selected candidates would undergo training in aiding police in traffic regulation and temple bandobust. Those who possessed valid driving licences would be employed as drivers of police vehicles, the police said.
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“This is a great step towards recognising transgenders and giving them a chance to join the mainstream workforce of society,” said Bharathi Kannamma, a transgender activist.