Guwahati: In a significant move, the Assam government has officially recognized individuals identifying as transgender or third gender as a Socially and Educationally Backward Class (SEBC).
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the decision following a state Cabinet meeting on Sunday, aligning it with the Supreme Court’s landmark 2014 NALSA vs Union of India case verdict.
“This is a historic step for Assam. In compliance with the Supreme Court’s directive, transgender persons in the state will now be recognised under the SEBC category,” said CM Sarma.
He stated that this recognition aims to “help integrate them into the mainstream of development and public welfare.”
However, the Chief Minister clarified that the benefits under this provision will be limited to permanent residents of Assam.
“This scheme is meant exclusively for native transgender individuals. Those who have migrated from other states for work, education, or other reasons will not be eligible,” he stated.
This affirmative action will extend crucial benefits in education, employment, and social welfare to the transgender community, which has historically faced marginalization. By formally including them in the SEBC category, Assam joins a select group of Indian states that have implemented the Supreme Court’s progressive vision into administrative policy.
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The 2014 NALSA verdict mandated both the Centre and state governments to treat transgender persons as the third gender and include them in public schemes and policies aimed at uplifting marginalised communities.
