Rajasthan Government Includes Transgender Community in OBC List, Receives Mixed Reactions

Jaipur- In a significant move, the Rajasthan government has extended inclusion to the transgender community in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) list. This milestone was marked by the issuance of the first-ever OBC certificate to a transgender individual, Noor Shekhawat, by Jaipur Sub-Divisional Officer Rajesh Jakhar.

Noor Shekhawat, aged 30, was also the first recipient of a birth certificate reflecting transgender status, few months back, in Rajasthan.

The decision, however, has evoked varied responses within the transgender community. While some hailed it as a landmark achievement, others expressed skepticism regarding its practical implications.

According to Jakhar, the inclusion of transgenders in the OBC category, positioned at number 92, enables members of the transgender community to obtain their Backward Class Certificate following prescribed procedures.

Noor Shekhawat, in a conversation with The Mooknayak, emphasized the positive impact of the government's move, citing an estimated 35 thousand transgender individuals in Rajasthan who stand to benefit.

With 27 percent reservation allotted to OBCs, Shekhawat foresees increased representation in government jobs and higher education, potentially alleviating socio-economic disparities.

Beyond employment opportunities, Shekhawat highlighted another crucial aspect – housing. The transgender community often faces challenges securing rental accommodations in urban areas.

With reservation benefits, Shekhawat anticipates priority access to plots and houses through the Government Housing Board at reserved rates.

However, not all members of the transgender community share Shekhawat's optimism. Pushpa Mai, a member of the Rajasthan Transgender Board, commended the government's initiative but voiced reservations regarding its efficacy.

Mai stressed the importance of delineating a fixed percentage of reservation within the OBC quota specifically for the transgender community. This, Mai argues, is essential for ensuring equitable access to benefits and opportunities.

Who is Noor Shekhawat?

A longstanding advocate for transgender rights, Shekhawat's efforts have been pivotal in securing recognition.

Notably, Shekhawat spearheaded the initiative to obtain Jan Aadhaar cards for transgender individuals.

Despite initial bureaucratic hurdles, Shekhawat's perseverance led to the issuance of the first Jan Aadhaar card in a transgender individual's name in the state.