The Union Finance Ministry has approved a Hyderabad-based IRS officer's request to change name and gender, marking a historic first.
The Union Finance Ministry has made history by approving a request from an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer based in Hyderabad to change their name and gender. This marks a significant milestone as the first such instance within the Indian civil service.
Formerly known as M Anusuya, the officer will now be recognized as M Anukathir Surya. Additionally, the officer's gender has been officially changed from female to male, following a decision by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Department of Revenue.
Mr. Surya started working as an assistant commissioner in Chennai in 2013 and has been promoted to Deputy Commissioner since then. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Electronics and Communication from the Madras Institute of Technology and a PG Diploma in Cyber Law and Cyber Forensics from the National Law Institute University.
This development comes nearly a decade after the Supreme Court's landmark NALSA case ruling, which acknowledged the third gender and affirmed that gender identity is a personal choice. The court emphasized the importance of upholding the basic human rights of transgender individuals and ensuring they live with dignity.
The judgment highlighted the need to recognize gender identity based on personal characteristics and perception, supported by medical advancements. It underscored the constitutional duty to provide equal rights and dignified life for transgender people in India.
Mr. Surya's case sets a precedent for inclusivity and respect within government institutions, reflecting evolving societal attitudes towards gender identity and rights.
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