Assam Recognizes Transgenders as 'Backward'

Assam Cabinet recognizes transgender community as SEBC, ensuring access to education, jobs, and welfare schemes.

- Nibir Deka

In a historic move promoting equality and inclusivity, the Assam Cabinet has officially recognized the transgender community under the category of Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC). The decision was announced by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

As part of this progressive policy, transgender persons who are original inhabitants of Assam will be eligible for official Transgender Identity Cards. These cards will be issued following verification by the respective District Commissioners and are expected to facilitate access to education, government jobs, and state-run welfare schemes.

Speaking to The Sunday Guardian, Assam's first transgender judge, Swati Bidhan Baruah, welcomed the move.

"It's an appreciable step. The fight we began to get the community recognized under the SEBC category has been worth it," she said.

Under the new policy, transgender individuals who are original inhabitants of Assam will receive Transgender Identity Cards after verification. These will enable them to access government benefits, job reservations, and welfare schemes.

"Today, the Assam Cabinet has approved providing socially and educationally backward class status to the transgender community who are original inhabitants of Assam," CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said.