OHRC Directs Odisha Govt to Add Transgender Option in OPSC Exam Forms, Recommends Job Reservation
The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has directed the state government to include a separate gender option for transgender candidates in the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) examination forms.
The move comes after a complaint filed by transgender activist Sony Sil, who argued that the absence of a “Third Gender/Transgender” option violated fundamental rights to equality and dignity.
Citing the Supreme Court’s landmark 2014 judgment and the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, the OHRC emphasised that exclusion from application forms amounts to discriminatory treatment.
The commission also recommended at least 1% horizontal reservation in government jobs for transgender candidates to ensure fair representation.
In addition, the OHRC has asked the government to extend the OPSC exam application deadline by 15 days to allow transgender applicants to apply.
The directive has been forwarded to the General Administration Department and the Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Department, urging them to act swiftly and instruct recruiting authorities to implement the changes.
This decision marks a significant step toward inclusivity in Odisha’s recruitment process, reinforcing the principle of equal opportunity for all citizens.
