Indian Bureaucracy Takes a Bold Step Towards Gender Inclusion

LGBTQIA+ community members praised the Union government for approving IRS officer M Anusuya's request to change her name and affirm her gender from female to male. This landmark decision is seen as a significant step towards gender inclusion within government systems and sets a positive precedent for others.

The LGBTQIA+ community has commended the Union government for approving the gender identity change of an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer, marking a significant move towards inclusion. M Anusuya, now known as M Anukathir Surya, had her gender affirmed from female to male.

An official order released by the Ministry of Finance on July 9, 2024, confirmed the officer's request. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs recognized this affirmation, noting the officer would be identified as Mr Anukathir Surya in all official records.

Community members hailed the decision as a 'very serious' step towards inclusion. Sharif D Rangnekar, an openly gay author, highlighted that as the government is the largest employer in the country, this sets an essential precedent. He emphasized the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, including fear of discrimination and economic insecurity.

(With inputs from agencies.)