Transgenders to soon be categorised as 'third gender', can change gender after sex-change surgery

New Delhi: As per the new government ruling, transgenders will soon be categorised as the 'third gender' and will be eligible for welfare benefits in reservation in jobs and education. 

According to a report published in Times of India, transgenders would also be eligible for choosing their gender after they undergo sex-change surgery. 

The Transgender Persons Protection of Right Bill will put the 'third gender' at par with weaker communities like SC/ST and OBC to end discrimination against them.

The proposal was struck for years as apprehension stemmed from the fact that LGBT group in popular discourse clubs trangenders with homosexuals as also some other provisions. 

However, a ruling by the apex court on June 30 clarified that homosexuals aren't transgenders helped sealed the proposal.  

Transgender community is among one of the most marginalised communities in the country because they don't fit into the stereotypical categories of gender of 'men' or 'women'. 

They face problems ranging from social exclusion to discrimination, lack of education facilities, unemployment and lack of medical facilities. 

The private member's bill moved by Rajya Sabha MP Tiruchi Siva was passed by the Rajya Sabha on April 24, 2015.