Transgender people in Pakistan`s Sindh province will be able to serve as regular duty police officers, the police chief said, adding it was time to offer more opportunities to a group relegated to menial jobs in government.

After years of sometimes brutal persecution, transgender Pakistanis gained recognition in 2009 when the Supreme Court granted them special status with rights equal to other citizens.

While discrimination still persists, the move to allow transgender police recruits would be a significant step for the community, activists say.

"We will make them part of Sindh police," Syed Kaleem Imam, Inspector General of the Sindh police told Reuters in Karachi, the capital of Sindh province.

"They are good God-gifted people. Citizens like us. We should stand by them," said Imam, who as a junior officer became aware of the discrimination against the community.

As in neighbouring India and Bangladesh, transgender Pakistanis have faced widespread discrimination for decades. Many live in secluded communities, earning a living as dancers or forced into sex work or begging.

A 2017 census counted 10,418 transgender people in the country of 207 million, but rights group Charity Trans Action Pakistan estimates there are at least 500,000.

`TRANS-FRIENDLY`

In a major step forward in 2009, the Supreme Court ruled that transgender people could receive national identity cards as a "third sex" and in 2017, the government issued its first passport with a transgender category.

While some transgender people have achieved celebrity as news anchors or fashion models, entry into the police force would be a major development for the community.

"Police behaviour and their complaint mechanism is not trans-friendly. I will try to make police trans-friendly and educate colleagues when I join the police," said Shahzadi Rai, a 29-year-old transgender activist who hopes to join the force.

"When we go to lodge any report at the police station, their behaviour and questions hurt us. They don`t ask questions about the case, but about our gender," Rai said.

Zehrish Khan, a programme manager at Gender Interactive Alliance, a transgender rights group, said the community had always sought inclusion and was now seeing the fruits of the 2009 Supreme Court ruling.

"If we are inducted into the police, we`ll show we can work harder compared to men and women," Khan told Reuters.&nbsp;

It could be months before the first transgender police officers are hired, Imam said, but they will have the same opportunities as other recruits and perform regular duties in the field.

"We will give them space, facilitate them so that they can come into the mainstream," the police chief said.

Transgender people in Pakistan`s Sindh province will be able to serve as regular duty police officers, the police chief said, adding it was time to offer more opportunities to a group relegated to menial jobs in government.

Transgender people in Pakistan`s Sindh province will be able to serve as regular duty police officers, the police chief said, adding it was time to offer more opportunities to a group relegated to menial jobs in government. After years of sometimes brutal persecution, transgender Pakistanis gained recognition in 2009 when the Supreme Court granted them special status with rights equal to other citizens. While discrimination still persists, the move to allow transgender police recruits would be a significant step for the community, activists say. "We will make them part of Sindh police," Syed Kaleem Imam, Inspector General of the Sindh police told Reuters in Karachi, the capital of Sindh province. "They are good God-gifted people. Citizens like us. We should stand by them," said Imam, who as a junior officer became aware of the discrimination against the community. As in neighbouring India and Bangladesh, transgender Pakistanis have faced widespread discrimination for decades. Many live in secluded communities, earning a living as dancers or forced into sex work or begging. A 2017 census counted 10,418 transgender people in the country of 207 million, but rights group Charity Trans Action Pakistan estimates there are at least 500,000. `TRANS-FRIENDLY` In a major step forward in 2009, the Supreme Court ruled that transgender people could receive national identity cards as a "third sex" and in 2017, the government issued its first passport with a transgender category. While some transgender people have achieved celebrity as news anchors or fashion models, entry into the police force would be a major development for the community. "Police behaviour and their complaint mechanism is not trans-friendly. I will try to make police trans-friendly and educate colleagues when I join the police," said Shahzadi Rai, a 29-year-old transgender activist who hopes to join the force. "When we go to lodge any report at the police station, their behaviour and questions hurt us. They don`t ask questions about the case, but about our gender," Rai said. Zehrish Khan, a programme manager at Gender Interactive Alliance, a transgender rights group, said the community had always sought inclusion and was now seeing the fruits of the 2009 Supreme Court ruling. "If we are inducted into the police, we`ll show we can work harder compared to men and women," Khan told Reuters. It could be months before the first transgender police officers are hired, Imam said, but they will have the same opportunities as other recruits and perform regular duties in the field. "We will give them space, facilitate them so that they can come into the mainstream," the police chief said.

Police to allow transgender recruits in Pakistan province

Life has never been easy for 53-year old Ramanujam (alias) Radha, but she has chosen a tougher path for herself, a path that nobody from her community in Tamil Nadu has taken. She is the first transgender candidate from Tamil Nadu to be contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha Polls. She is contesting as an independent and has been allotted the Computer Mouse symbol.&nbsp;

We caught up with her on her campaign trail, as she traversed the busy lanes of T.Nagar, the commercial hub that falls under the South Chennai Parliamentary constituency. She walks along with her friend Nila, casually chatting with passersby and curious onlookers and urging them to vote for a member of the third gender, that has been neglected and ignored by society.&nbsp;

Speaking fluently in English, Radha recalls that she is a proud post-graduate, with a BA in Economics and MA in English. However, her nomination papers mention only 12th standard as her qualification, as her college certificates were damaged during the 2015 Chennai Floods. Radha laments that despite their educational qualification, jobs are hard to find for a&nbsp;trans person. She makes ends meet by working as&nbsp;a cook and housemaid and is cheerful about her culinary skills.&nbsp;

"I can cook a variety of North Indian and South Indian dishes, but continental would be a little difficult as I haven’t had any formal training", she says with a smile. Speaking of her decision to take the political plunge, she says that the rampant sexual violence against women and children, society remaining passive about it is what disturbs her the most. As a transgender, I will fight to ensure health penalty for those behind these crimes.

The other issues that she highlights are the water woes in several areas across her constituency, unchecked disposal of garbage and the lack of adequate toilet facilities outside the famous Kapaleeswarar temple in Mylapore. While the landmark Supreme Court verdict to strike down Section 377 was a boon to the LGBTQ community, she says that they wish to actively campaign for marriage rights, property rights, adoption etc.&nbsp;

Expressing enthusiasm about her campaign, she says, "there has been a very good response from the public and the fishermen community embraced me and performed aarti, but there are few exceptions where people walk away due to apprehension. I am happy that transgender people are being acknowledged and are able to contribute to society by taking up jobs in the fields of medicine, law, police. So why not politics then?"&nbsp;

Radha will be up against the AIADMK’s incumbent MP J Jayavardhan and DMK’s Thamizhachi Thangapandian and Makkal Needhi Maiam’s Rangarajan and several other candidates from small parties, independents. Referring to the electoral battle that lay ahead, she confidently says, "I am bestowed with a man’s strength and woman’s compassion".

Life has never been easy for 53-year old Ramanujam (alias) Radha, but she has chosen a tougher path for herself, a path that nobody from her community in Tamil Nadu has taken.

Life has never been easy for 53-year old Ramanujam (alias) Radha, but she has chosen a tougher path for herself, a path that nobody from her community in Tamil Nadu has taken. She is the first transgender candidate from Tamil Nadu to be contesting in the upcoming Lok Sabha Polls. She is contesting as an independent and has been allotted the Computer Mouse symbol. We caught up with her on her campaign trail, as she traversed the busy lanes of T.Nagar, the commercial hub that falls under the South Chennai Parliamentary constituency. She walks along with her friend Nila, casually chatting with passersby and curious onlookers and urging them to vote for a member of the third gender, that has been neglected and ignored by society. Speaking fluently in English, Radha recalls that she is a proud post-graduate, with a BA in Economics and MA in English. However, her nomination papers mention only 12th standard as her qualification, as her college certificates were damaged during the 2015 Chennai Floods. Radha laments that despite their educational qualification, jobs are hard to find for a trans person. She makes ends meet by working as a cook and housemaid and is cheerful about her culinary skills. "I can cook a variety of North Indian and South Indian dishes, but continental would be a little difficult as I haven’t had any formal training", she says with a smile. Speaking of her decision to take the political plunge, she says that the rampant sexual violence against women and children, society remaining passive about it is what disturbs her the most. As a transgender, I will fight to ensure health penalty for those behind these crimes. The other issues that she highlights are the water woes in several areas across her constituency, unchecked disposal of garbage and the lack of adequate toilet facilities outside the famous Kapaleeswarar temple in Mylapore. While the landmark Supreme Court verdict to strike down Section 377 was a boon to the LGBTQ community, she says that they wish to actively campaign for marriage rights, property rights, adoption etc. Expressing enthusiasm about her campaign, she says, "there has been a very good response from the public and the fishermen community embraced me and performed aarti, but there are few exceptions where people walk away due to apprehension. I am happy that transgender people are being acknowledged and are able to contribute to society by taking up jobs in the fields of medicine, law, police. So why not politics then?" Radha will be up against the AIADMK’s incumbent MP J Jayavardhan and DMK’s Thamizhachi Thangapandian and Makkal Needhi Maiam’s Rangarajan and several other candidates from small parties, independents. Referring to the electoral battle that lay ahead, she confidently says, "I am bestowed with a man’s strength and woman’s compassion".

'I am bestowed with a man's strength and a woman's compassion', says Tamil Nadu's first Transgender candidate

Fifteen couples got married in a mass wedding ceremony organised for the transgender community here on Saturday.

The ceremony was conducted in traditional Hindu ceremonial style with pre-wedding rituals of 'haldi', 'mehendi', engagement and 'sangeet' held a day earlier on Friday.

"This should have happened a long time ago because we transgenders don’t have anybody to share out joys and sorrows. Nobody understands our sorrows. Today the government has given us such a good scheme and has given us an opportunity to get married. I thank them profusely" said Madhu

Kinnar, a transgender and the mayor of Raigarh in Chhattisgarh who attended the event.

"We are getting life partners, what can be better news than this?" said Madhu adding that the marriage was the first of its kind in the country and hopefully it will set a trend for future such events.

According to the 2014 Supreme Court judgement, transgenders are now recognised as "third gender" and enjoy constitutional rights and freedom.

The event conceived by Raipur-based transgender and social activist Vidya Rajput saw couples from Chhatisgarh and other states.

Fifteen couples got married in a mass wedding ceremony organised for the transgender community here on Saturday. The ceremony was conducted in traditional Hindu ceremonial style with pre-wedding rituals of 'haldi', 'mehendi', engagement and 'sangeet' held a day earlier on Friday.

Fifteen couples got married in a mass wedding ceremony organised for the transgender community here on Saturday. The ceremony was conducted in traditional Hindu ceremonial style with pre-wedding rituals of 'haldi', 'mehendi', engagement and 'sangeet' held a day earlier on Friday. "This should have happened a long time ago because we transgenders don’t have anybody to share out joys and sorrows. Nobody understands our sorrows. Today the government has given us such a good scheme and has given us an opportunity to get married. I thank them profusely" said Madhu Kinnar, a transgender and the mayor of Raigarh in Chhattisgarh who attended the event. "We are getting life partners, what can be better news than this?" said Madhu adding that the marriage was the first of its kind in the country and hopefully it will set a trend for future such events. According to the 2014 Supreme Court judgement, transgenders are now recognised as "third gender" and enjoy constitutional rights and freedom. The event conceived by Raipur-based transgender and social activist Vidya Rajput saw couples from Chhatisgarh and other states.

Chattisgarh: Transgender couples get married in Raipur mass wedding

The US Defense Department signed a memo on Tuesday that would enforce limitations on transgender people serving in the military, a policy that has been the subject of court challenges.

The policy will take effect on April 12 and will bar most transgender individuals from serving if they require hormone treatments or transition surgery.

The memo, signed by David Norquist, currently the No. 2 official at the Pentagon, will allow service secretaries to issue waivers on a case-by-case basis.

President Donald Trump announced in July 2017 a ban on transgender people serving in the military. He later accepted Pentagon recommendations to limit the ban to individuals with a history of gender dysphoria, defined as "those who may require substantial medical treatment," and allowing some exceptions.

A series of court challenges had put the policy on hold. But the US Supreme Court in January lifted lower-court rulings that had blocked the policy, allowing it to go into effect.

Trump`s decision to bar many transgender troops reversed a landmark 2016 policy of his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, to let transgender people for the first time serve openly in the armed forces and receive medical care to transition genders.

Trump cited military focus and medical costs for rolling back the policy.

A 2016 Pentagon-commissioned study found that any impact on cost or military readiness from having transgender troops would be marginal. It estimated there were around 2,450 transgender troops at the time.

Advocates for transgender people criticised the Trump policy. "The Trump administration is determined to bring back `don’t ask, don`t tell,` a policy that forced service members to choose between serving their country and telling the truth about who they were," Aaron Belkin, director of the Palm Center LGBT-rights think tank, said in a statement.&nbsp;

The US Defense Department signed a memo on Tuesday that would enforce limitations on transgender people serving in the military, a policy that has been the subject of court challenges.

The US Defense Department signed a memo on Tuesday that would enforce limitations on transgender people serving in the military, a policy that has been the subject of court challenges. The policy will take effect on April 12 and will bar most transgender individuals from serving if they require hormone treatments or transition surgery. The memo, signed by David Norquist, currently the No. 2 official at the Pentagon, will allow service secretaries to issue waivers on a case-by-case basis. President Donald Trump announced in July 2017 a ban on transgender people serving in the military. He later accepted Pentagon recommendations to limit the ban to individuals with a history of gender dysphoria, defined as "those who may require substantial medical treatment," and allowing some exceptions. A series of court challenges had put the policy on hold. But the US Supreme Court in January lifted lower-court rulings that had blocked the policy, allowing it to go into effect. Trump`s decision to bar many transgender troops reversed a landmark 2016 policy of his Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama, to let transgender people for the first time serve openly in the armed forces and receive medical care to transition genders. Trump cited military focus and medical costs for rolling back the policy. A 2016 Pentagon-commissioned study found that any impact on cost or military readiness from having transgender troops would be marginal. It estimated there were around 2,450 transgender troops at the time. Advocates for transgender people criticised the Trump policy. "The Trump administration is determined to bring back `don’t ask, don`t tell,` a policy that forced service members to choose between serving their country and telling the truth about who they were," Aaron Belkin, director of the Palm Center LGBT-rights think tank, said in a statement.

Pentagon sets limits on transgender troops

Sanjana Singh, a transgender woman, has been appointed the personal secretary (PS) to Krishna Gopal Tiwari, Director, Department of Social Justice and Disabled Welfare (DSJDW), Madhya Pradesh government.

With this feat, Sanjana, known for proactively participating in social events in the city, has become the first transgender in the state to get a government job.

The 36-year-old transgender was appointed on March 1 by Tiwari. She has also been made a legal volunteer of the District Legal Authority, and a member of the Lok Adalat, where she will hear the pending cases along with the judge.

Sanjana, who hails from the city’s Ashoka Garden area, had to quit studies after Class XII, but lately as sources told ANI she has resumed her studies.

Talking to ANI, Sanjana said, “Tiwari Ji has taken a good step. In the coming days, the people of our community will get better opportunities. If our community is given enough opportunities, we can do a lot for the society.”

“This is a small change. In the future, there will be bigger changes,” she said while asking for reservation for the transgender community in the government jobs.

“If the reservation can be provided to others, then why not to us,” she asked, adding that there was a need to spread awareness in the society about transgender.

“If the society does not accept us, we will not be able to break our barriers,” she said.&nbsp;

Sanjana Singh, a transgender woman, has been appointed the personal secretary (PS) to Krishna Gopal Tiwari, Director, Department of Social Justice and Disabled Welfare (DSJDW), Madhya Pradesh government.

Sanjana Singh, a transgender woman, has been appointed the personal secretary (PS) to Krishna Gopal Tiwari, Director, Department of Social Justice and Disabled Welfare (DSJDW), Madhya Pradesh government. With this feat, Sanjana, known for proactively participating in social events in the city, has become the first transgender in the state to get a government job. The 36-year-old transgender was appointed on March 1 by Tiwari. She has also been made a legal volunteer of the District Legal Authority, and a member of the Lok Adalat, where she will hear the pending cases along with the judge. Sanjana, who hails from the city’s Ashoka Garden area, had to quit studies after Class XII, but lately as sources told ANI she has resumed her studies. Talking to ANI, Sanjana said, “Tiwari Ji has taken a good step. In the coming days, the people of our community will get better opportunities. If our community is given enough opportunities, we can do a lot for the society.” “This is a small change. In the future, there will be bigger changes,” she said while asking for reservation for the transgender community in the government jobs. “If the reservation can be provided to others, then why not to us,” she asked, adding that there was a need to spread awareness in the society about transgender. “If the society does not accept us, we will not be able to break our barriers,” she said.

Meet Sanjana Singh, first transgender to get government job in Madhya Pradesh

Narthaki Nataraj, the first transgender to be awarded the Padma Shri, opined that she was chosen for the civilian decoration not because of her gender or identity but solely on the basis of merit and her talent as a Bharatanatyam artist.

"I was chosen not because of my transgender identity but on basis of merit as a Bharatanatyam artist. I have given more than 30 years of my life in the service of Bharatanatyam," she told news agency ANI.

Nataraj, a professional Bharatnatyam artist specialising in Thanjavur-based Nayaki Bhava tradition of dance, said that though she is in her fifties, she still feels like a 16-year-old.

"On Facebook, I have mentioned myself as Nityakalyani, because I feel like a beautiful angel from the core of my heart, I feel like a beautiful transgender woman, a beautiful dancer. Though I have a lot of wounds, I hide them," said Nataraj.

Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday announced the name of 112 recipients of the Padma awards, one of the highest civilian awards of the country on the eve of the country's 70th Republic Day.

The Padma awards are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, the second, third and fourth highest civilian awards of the country respectively, only after Bharat Ratna.

 
This year's awardees comprise four Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri recipients.

Narthaki Nataraj, the first transgender to be awarded the Padma Shri, opined that she was chosen for the civilian decoration not because of her gender or identity but solely on the basis of merit and her talent as a Bharatanatyam artist.

Narthaki Nataraj, the first transgender to be awarded the Padma Shri, opined that she was chosen for the civilian decoration not because of her gender or identity but solely on the basis of merit and her talent as a Bharatanatyam artist. "I was chosen not because of my transgender identity but on basis of merit as a Bharatanatyam artist. I have given more than 30 years of my life in the service of Bharatanatyam," she told news agency ANI. Nataraj, a professional Bharatnatyam artist specialising in Thanjavur-based Nayaki Bhava tradition of dance, said that though she is in her fifties, she still feels like a 16-year-old. "On Facebook, I have mentioned myself as Nityakalyani, because I feel like a beautiful angel from the core of my heart, I feel like a beautiful transgender woman, a beautiful dancer. Though I have a lot of wounds, I hide them," said Nataraj. Union Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday announced the name of 112 recipients of the Padma awards, one of the highest civilian awards of the country on the eve of the country's 70th Republic Day. The Padma awards are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, the second, third and fourth highest civilian awards of the country respectively, only after Bharat Ratna. This year's awardees comprise four Padma Vibhushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri recipients.

Awarded for my art, not my transgender identity: Padma Shri Narthaki Nataraj

Sonam Kapoor, Anil Kapoor starrer 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To Aisa Laga' has been a historic film for several reasons. The film not only pairs Sonam Kapoor and her father Anil Kapoor on screen for the first time, but is also perhaps the first commercial film in Bollywood that has an LGBTQ love story at its core.

Sonam Kapoor, Anil Kapoor starrer 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To Aisa Laga' has been a historic film for several reasons. The film not only pairs Sonam Kapoor and her father Anil Kapoor on screen for the first time, but is also perhaps the first commercial film in Bollywood that has an LGBTQ love story at its core. The film also has a transwoman as its writer. Ghazal Dhaliwal, a transwoman writer has been writing dialogues and screenplay for Hindi films for some time now. She has worked on films like 'Lipstick Under My Burkha', 'Qarib Qarib Singlle' and 'Wazir' before. But with 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To Aisa Laga' she makes her transition as the story writer of the film. Born as Gunraj, a boy, Ghazal had Gender Dysphoria - where a person does not associate with the biological gender he or she is born with. Back in 2014, on an episode of Alternative Sexualities on Aamir Khan's show 'Satyamev Jayate', Ghazal had recalled how she was always felt like a woman but trapped in a man's body. "I was born in the wrong body. I was born in the body of a man but I never felt like a man. I liked playing with girls, I liked wearing my mother's clothes, playing with her dupattas... when I was 5 years old, I realized that I liked feminine things. My aunt saw me once playing with my mother's clothes, and she slapped me. That was the first time I realized that how society views me, and how I view myself is different," recalled Ghazal. Ghazal's initial years as Gunraj was a struggle. "For the longest time I could not tell people how I felt... because my behaviour was a little feminine, I was teased a lot in school. And I kept trying to hide my identity. For every day, every minute, ever second, I felt trapped... as if I was in jail." She first spoke to her father about her identity at the age of 14 and while they were p[atient, they were unable to understand what she meant. At 16 she fled from home and boarded a train to Delhi but got scared mid-way and called her parents back home. As her father came to take her back home, she admitted that it was not a phase for her. Her parents came around and have supported her ever since. View this post on Instagram Alright then! Mother, Father and I, all set for today's #HistoricVerdict by #SupremeCourtOfIndia on #RainbowEquality #Sec377 #DecriminalizationOfLGBT . . #LGBTRights #QueerRights #Rainbow #LGBT #Queer #EqualRights #ConsensualSex #ConsentingAdults #India A post shared by Gazal Dhaliwal (@gazaldhaliwal) on Sep 5, 2018 at 9:11pm PDT × It was in 2007 that she underwent a Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS) - a decision which was in fact prompted by her parents."After the surgery, I was not excited, but at peace. Because finally, my soul was at peace with my body." Her love for movies made her shift to Mumbai in 2005 after working in Infosys for two years. While she studied engineering, she always had aspirations to become a writer in Bollywood. With a degree in filmmaking from St. Xavier's, she has in the past assisted filmmaker Govind Nihalani. Ghazal has been an active voice for the LGBTQ community and has used public platforms to share her story and inspire others. She has also made a short film called 'A Monsoon Date' that stars Konkona Sen Sharma in the lead and was screened at MAMI last year. Ghazal says she drew a lot from her personal life experiences while writing for 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga'. View this post on Instagram For as long as I can remember... for more than 20 years perhaps, I have wanted to write a story/film set entirely in the rains. And here we are! #AMonsoonDate is a short film that I had the privilege of writing for my very dear friend and director, @tanuja__chandra. The film premieres this year at @mumbaifilmfestival #JioMAMIwithStar2018 (starting 25th Oct) in the Spotlight section. The one thing that absolutely has to be said about my experience on this film is that @konkonas is pure magic. Actor. Person. In every way possible. Magic. In fact, Tanuja always manages to bring together some of the most wonderful, talented and loving people on her team. Some sort of a gift she has! Director of Photography - @saurabh_goswami13 Producer - Rakesh Singh, @erosnow #ErosNow Production Design - @aparnashimla, Garima Mathur Editor - Akshara Prabhakar Costume - @maria.tharakan, Kirti Kolwankar Sound - Hemant Rao Music - Veer Kowli (Chrms) Associate Director - @shikhamakan Hair and Make-up - @ridz5014 Promotional stills - @ritambanerjee Credit stills - @avani.rai Behind the Scenes - @starvingartistfilms Posters, VFX - Divya Sud Qureshi, Zulfiquar Qureshi A post shared by Gazal Dhaliwal (@gazaldhaliwal) on Oct 6, 2018 at 12:10pm PDT × View this post on Instagram Started writing this film in Nov 2016. And here we are now! "Surreal" hardly even begins to explain how I'm feeling. Trailer comes out on Dec 27th, 2018 Film releases on Feb 1st, 2019 #EkLadkiKoDekhaTohAisaLaga #ELKDTAL #ELKD @foxstarhindi @foxstarindia @anilskapoor @rajkummar_rao @iamjuhichawla @sonamkapoor A post shared by Gazal Dhaliwal (@gazaldhaliwal) on Dec 25, 2018 at 4:01am PST × Directed by Shelly Chopra Dhar, 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga' also stars Rajkummar Rao and Juhi Chawla. It is set to release on 1st February.

Meet Ghazal Dhaliwal, the transwoman writer of 'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga'

Transgender Actor Zach Barack has made his way to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as he is all set to feature in 'Spider-Man: Far From Home.'

The actor, who first appeared in the film's trailer, posted a picture on Instagram suggesting he is playing the role of Peter Parker's friend.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsqJa2IFybK/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Anyone else dying to see this movie???</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zach_l_b/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Zach Barack</a> (@zach_l_b) on <time datetime="2019-01-15T14:29:10+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 15, 2019 at 6:29am PST</time>
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While the exact details of Barack's role are being kept under tight wraps, the actor, according to The Hollywood Reporter, joins Parker on a class trip to Europe.

Barack is believed to be the first out transgender actor to appear in a superhero film.&nbsp;

His past credit includes several episodes of L.A.'s Finest Directed by Jon Watts, the film would see Spider-Man dealing with the fallout from Infinity War, and as per the title, it will be the first Spider-Man solo movie to take the hero out of New York.

The film will feature British actor Tom Holland as Spider-Man, while Jake Gyllenhaal will be seen as the classic Spider-Man villain Mysterio.

'Spider-Man: Far From Home' is scheduled to release on July 5.

Transgender Actor Zach Barack has made his way to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as he is all set to feature in 'Spider-Man: Far From Home.' The actor, who first appeared in the film's trailer, posted a picture on Instagram suggesting he is playing the role of Peter Parker's friend.

Transgender Actor Zach Barack has made his way to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as he is all set to feature in 'Spider-Man: Far From Home.' The actor, who first appeared in the film's trailer, posted a picture on Instagram suggesting he is playing the role of Peter Parker's friend. View this post on Instagram Anyone else dying to see this movie??? A post shared by Zach Barack (@zach_l_b) on Jan 15, 2019 at 6:29am PST × While the exact details of Barack's role are being kept under tight wraps, the actor, according to The Hollywood Reporter, joins Parker on a class trip to Europe. Barack is believed to be the first out transgender actor to appear in a superhero film. His past credit includes several episodes of L.A.'s Finest Directed by Jon Watts, the film would see Spider-Man dealing with the fallout from Infinity War, and as per the title, it will be the first Spider-Man solo movie to take the hero out of New York. The film will feature British actor Tom Holland as Spider-Man, while Jake Gyllenhaal will be seen as the classic Spider-Man villain Mysterio. 'Spider-Man: Far From Home' is scheduled to release on July 5.

Transgender actor Zach Barack to feature in 'Spider-Man: Far From Home'

Terming it 'Akhada beyond sexuality', the head priest of Kinnar Akhada on Friday called their first-time participation at the Kumbh 2019 as a step forward towards acceptance in the society.

Kinnar Akhada Mahamandaleshwar, Acharya, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi exuded pride and confidence while talking of her Akhada's debut at this massive congregation of pilgrims and said, "For me, it is a wonderful situation to come to this divine Prayagraj Kumbh. For me, we are one of the most conservative societies in the world where the acceptance of the third gender is remarkably outstanding. For us, this participation is about mainstream society accepting us. This is Akhada beyond sexuality. The creator is within us and once we perish we will go back to him. Our doors are open for all."

Talking further about transgender issues and the modern scenario, she added, "Still the battle is on. We are sure that we will come across these hurdles. My community is striving to make its place in the mainstreams place whether it is art and culture, religion. We are here only to give unconditional love to all irrespective of creed, color or background."

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Prayagraj: 'Kinnar Akhara' is participating in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KumbhMela2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KumbhMela2019</a> for the first time. Pavitra, Secretary of 'Kinnar Akhara', says, “Public &amp; all the devotees who are here have supported us &amp; shown lot of respect for us. We are happy that people here have accepted us.” <a href="https://t.co/7cHRV8Bkkm">pic.twitter.com/7cHRV8Bkkm</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1083747078147268609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Adding further to it, Pavitra, Secretary of Kinnar Akhada said, "I have been with the Kinnar Akhada since its formation. We were preparing for the last two years to participate in Prayagraj Kumbh. We met with administration and the concerned ministers to get land allocated for us to set up our camp at this Kumbh. We were very willing to be here and now that we have arrived, the general public and pilgrims have been very supportive. We can see respect and acceptance in everyone's eye for us and it really feels very good."

The Akhada reportedly also faced some protests for its distinct identity, speaking about which, she said, "Whenever there is some good initiative some people do object. There were objections on the name of Kinnar Akhada and other things. But we have been successful in leaving these challenges behind us and are looking forward to increased acceptance."

The Ardh Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj will commence from January 14 to March 3 at the Triveni Sangam - the holy confluence of river Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati.

Thousands of devotees are expected to arrive in the city to take a holy dip in Triveni Sangam.

Terming it 'Akhada beyond sexuality', the head priest of Kinnar Akhada on Friday called their first-time participation at the Kumbh 2019 as a step forward towards acceptance in the society.

Terming it 'Akhada beyond sexuality', the head priest of Kinnar Akhada on Friday called their first-time participation at the Kumbh 2019 as a step forward towards acceptance in the society. Kinnar Akhada Mahamandaleshwar, Acharya, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi exuded pride and confidence while talking of her Akhada's debut at this massive congregation of pilgrims and said, "For me, it is a wonderful situation to come to this divine Prayagraj Kumbh. For me, we are one of the most conservative societies in the world where the acceptance of the third gender is remarkably outstanding. For us, this participation is about mainstream society accepting us. This is Akhada beyond sexuality. The creator is within us and once we perish we will go back to him. Our doors are open for all." Talking further about transgender issues and the modern scenario, she added, "Still the battle is on. We are sure that we will come across these hurdles. My community is striving to make its place in the mainstreams place whether it is art and culture, religion. We are here only to give unconditional love to all irrespective of creed, color or background." Prayagraj: 'Kinnar Akhara' is participating in #KumbhMela2019 for the first time. Pavitra, Secretary of 'Kinnar Akhara', says, “Public & all the devotees who are here have supported us & shown lot of respect for us. We are happy that people here have accepted us.” pic.twitter.com/7cHRV8Bkkm — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) January 11, 2019 × Adding further to it, Pavitra, Secretary of Kinnar Akhada said, "I have been with the Kinnar Akhada since its formation. We were preparing for the last two years to participate in Prayagraj Kumbh. We met with administration and the concerned ministers to get land allocated for us to set up our camp at this Kumbh. We were very willing to be here and now that we have arrived, the general public and pilgrims have been very supportive. We can see respect and acceptance in everyone's eye for us and it really feels very good." The Akhada reportedly also faced some protests for its distinct identity, speaking about which, she said, "Whenever there is some good initiative some people do object. There were objections on the name of Kinnar Akhada and other things. But we have been successful in leaving these challenges behind us and are looking forward to increased acceptance." The Ardh Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj will commence from January 14 to March 3 at the Triveni Sangam - the holy confluence of river Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. Thousands of devotees are expected to arrive in the city to take a holy dip in Triveni Sangam.

For first time, transgender 'akhada' to participate in Kumbh Mela this year

Members of the transgender community on Wednesday held a protest against the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-adjourns-after-passing-transgender-bill-rajya-sabha-without-transacting-any-business-184816">transgender persons bill</a>, 2018 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai.

The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, which was passed in the Lok Sabha last week, has been received with an outcry from the transgender group, urging the government to either withdraw or send the Bill for a review.

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Vicky Shinde, member of transgender community: Lord Rama gave us right to bless people during occasions of happiness, it’s not begging but it's criminalized under this bill. If you can't provide us employment don’t take our livelihood away, I urge PM to stop this bill. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/Up4BCBsfOc">pic.twitter.com/Up4BCBsfOc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1077919580935335936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Speaking to ANI, Vicky Shinde, a member of the transgender community, said, "Lord Rama gave us right to bless people during occasions of happiness, it's not begging but it has been criminalised under this bill. If you cannot provide us employment, don't take our livelihood away. I urge Prime Minister Narendra Modi to stop this Bill."

Earlier, on December 20, transgender persons had organised a protest against the Bill at the District Commissioner's office in Kalaburagi, Karnataka.&nbsp;

Members of the transgender community on Wednesday held a protest against the transgender persons bill, 2018 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, which was passed in the Lok Sabha last week, has been received with an outcry from the transgender group, urging the government to either withdraw or send the Bill for a review.

Members of the transgender community on Wednesday held a protest against the transgender persons bill, 2018 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, which was passed in the Lok Sabha last week, has been received with an outcry from the transgender group, urging the government to either withdraw or send the Bill for a review. Vicky Shinde, member of transgender community: Lord Rama gave us right to bless people during occasions of happiness, it’s not begging but it's criminalized under this bill. If you can't provide us employment don’t take our livelihood away, I urge PM to stop this bill. #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/Up4BCBsfOc — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2018 × Speaking to ANI, Vicky Shinde, a member of the transgender community, said, "Lord Rama gave us right to bless people during occasions of happiness, it's not begging but it has been criminalised under this bill. If you cannot provide us employment, don't take our livelihood away. I urge Prime Minister Narendra Modi to stop this Bill." Earlier, on December 20, transgender persons had organised a protest against the Bill at the District Commissioner's office in Kalaburagi, Karnataka.

Mumbai: Transgender community protests against transgender persons bill

A delegation of transgenders, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/transgenders-on-way-to-sabarimala-sent-back-by-police-184510">which was previously stopped from proceeding</a> to offer prayers at the Sabarimala temple, offered prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple on Tuesday, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Clad in traditional black sarees, Ananya, Trupti, Renjumol and Avanthika carried the customary "Irrumudikettu"(sacred offerings to the deity) to the temple. They were escorted by the police.

They expressed happiness on being able to offer prayers at the temple.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the delegation alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> The transgender delegation offers prayers at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sabarimala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sabarimala</a> temple. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> <a href="https://t.co/yFDVU0Twd3">pic.twitter.com/yFDVU0Twd3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074943490629517312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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They said they reached here in the early hours but the police were reluctant to provide them security and permission to proceed further. They also alleged that the Erumeli Police even asked them to change into male attire for proceeding to the Lord Ayyappa temple.&nbsp;

"The ban on menstruating women is not applicable to us. Though we have told this to the police, they were not ready to allow us to proceed further. They harassed us mentally and forced us to wear a male dress," Ananya said.

The delegation then met DGP A Hemachandran, a member of the Kerala High Court-appointed supervisory panel, and Inspector General of Police Manoj Abraham here Monday after which they were allowed to proceed.

The Supreme Court of India this year had ruled in favour of the entry of women of all age groups into the shrine. The temple authorities previously didn't allow women of menstrual age (ageing 10-50 years) into the holy site.&nbsp;

Scores of &nbsp;Lord Ayyappa devotees protested the apex court's decision. Over a dozen women have so far made unsuccessful attempts to trek to the holy hills.

(With inputs from PTI)

A delegation of transgenders, which was previously stopped from proceeding to offer prayers at the Sabarimala temple, offered prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple on Tuesday, news agency PTI reported.

A delegation of transgenders, which was previously stopped from proceeding to offer prayers at the Sabarimala temple, offered prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple on Tuesday, news agency PTI reported. Clad in traditional black sarees, Ananya, Trupti, Renjumol and Avanthika carried the customary "Irrumudikettu"(sacred offerings to the deity) to the temple. They were escorted by the police. They expressed happiness on being able to offer prayers at the temple. On Sunday, the delegation alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue. #UPDATE The transgender delegation offers prayers at the #Sabarimala temple. #Kerala pic.twitter.com/yFDVU0Twd3 — ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2018 × They said they reached here in the early hours but the police were reluctant to provide them security and permission to proceed further. They also alleged that the Erumeli Police even asked them to change into male attire for proceeding to the Lord Ayyappa temple. "The ban on menstruating women is not applicable to us. Though we have told this to the police, they were not ready to allow us to proceed further. They harassed us mentally and forced us to wear a male dress," Ananya said. The delegation then met DGP A Hemachandran, a member of the Kerala High Court-appointed supervisory panel, and Inspector General of Police Manoj Abraham here Monday after which they were allowed to proceed. The Supreme Court of India this year had ruled in favour of the entry of women of all age groups into the shrine. The temple authorities previously didn't allow women of menstrual age (ageing 10-50 years) into the holy site. Scores of Lord Ayyappa devotees protested the apex court's decision. Over a dozen women have so far made unsuccessful attempts to trek to the holy hills. (With inputs from PTI)

Escorted by police, four transgenders offer prayers at Sabarimala temple

A group of transgenders, who were <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/sabarimala-verdict-missteps-on-gods-stairway-172050">on their way to offer prayers at Sabarimala temple, were stopped here</a>, around 60 km from the shrine, and sent back by police Sunday.

The transgenders alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue.

Ananya, Trupti, Renjumol and Avanthika were dressed in black sarees, the traditional pilgrim attire, and were carrying the customary 'irumudikettu' (sacred offerings to God).

They said they reached here in the early hours but the police was reluctant to provide them security and permission to proceed further.

They alleged that the Erumeli Police even asked them to change into male attire for proceeding to the Lord Ayyappa temple.&nbsp;

Ananya said they did not want to change the saree.

"The ban on menstruating women is not applicable to us. Though we have told this to the police, they were not ready to allow us to proceed further. They harassed us mentally and forced us to wear a male dress," Ananya said.

The devotee also said they would approach the high court against the police's move.

However, Kottayam Superintendent of Police S Harishankar rejected the charges of harassment and said everyone had the right to offer prayers at Sabarimala.

"We need to get some more legal clarity in this regard. So, we will approach the high court-appointed panel and seek their advice," he told reporters.

The state had witnessed massive protests by Lord Ayyappa devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple since the Kerala government decided to implement a Supreme Court order permitting women of all age groups into the shrine.

Over a dozen women have so far made unsuccessful attempts to trek the holy hills due to furious protests by devotees and right-wing groups.&nbsp;

A group of transgenders, who were on their way to offer prayers at Sabarimala temple, were stopped here, around 60 km from the shrine, and sent back by police Sunday.

A group of transgenders, who were on their way to offer prayers at Sabarimala temple, were stopped here, around 60 km from the shrine, and sent back by police Sunday. The transgenders alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue. Ananya, Trupti, Renjumol and Avanthika were dressed in black sarees, the traditional pilgrim attire, and were carrying the customary 'irumudikettu' (sacred offerings to God). They said they reached here in the early hours but the police was reluctant to provide them security and permission to proceed further. They alleged that the Erumeli Police even asked them to change into male attire for proceeding to the Lord Ayyappa temple. Ananya said they did not want to change the saree. "The ban on menstruating women is not applicable to us. Though we have told this to the police, they were not ready to allow us to proceed further. They harassed us mentally and forced us to wear a male dress," Ananya said. The devotee also said they would approach the high court against the police's move. However, Kottayam Superintendent of Police S Harishankar rejected the charges of harassment and said everyone had the right to offer prayers at Sabarimala. "We need to get some more legal clarity in this regard. So, we will approach the high court-appointed panel and seek their advice," he told reporters. The state had witnessed massive protests by Lord Ayyappa devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple since the Kerala government decided to implement a Supreme Court order permitting women of all age groups into the shrine. Over a dozen women have so far made unsuccessful attempts to trek the holy hills due to furious protests by devotees and right-wing groups.

Now, transgenders en route to Sabarimala sent back by police

Caitlyn Jenner, America`s best-known transgender celebrity, said on Thursday that she had been wrong to support President Donald Trump, saying he had insulted the transgender community and turned them into political pawns. 
 
Jenner, 68, who announced her transition from Olympic gold medalist Bruce Jenner to Caitlyn in 2015, voted for Republican Trump in the 2016 presidential election despite criticism from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. 
 
In an opinion piece for the Washington Post on Thursday, she said she had hoped to work with Trump and Republican policymakers to support transgender people. 
 
"Sadly, I was wrong. The reality is that the trans community is being relentlessly attacked by this president. 
 
"He has ignored our humanity. He has insulted our dignity. He has made trans people into political pawns as he whips up animus against us in an attempt to energize the most right-wing segment of his party," Jenner wrote. 
 
Jenner`s opinion piece was published after a report this week that the Trump administration was attempting to create a narrow definition of gender as being only male or female and unchangeable once it is determined at birth. 
 
"It is unacceptable, it is upsetting, and it has deeply, personally hurt me," wrote Jenner, the former patriarch on reality television show "Keeping Up with the Kardashians." 
 
Jenner and rapper Kanye West who is married to Kim Kardashian have been two of the biggest celebrity supporters of Trump. 
 
But she wrote on Thursday, "I cannot support anyone who is working against our community. I do not support Trump. I must learn from my mistakes and move forward."&nbsp; 
Jenner was not immediately available for further comment.

Caitlyn Jenner, America`s best-known transgender celebrity, said on Thursday that she had been wrong to support President Donald Trump, saying he had insulted the transgender community and turned them into political pawns.

Caitlyn Jenner, America`s best-known transgender celebrity, said on Thursday that she had been wrong to support President Donald Trump, saying he had insulted the transgender community and turned them into political pawns. Jenner, 68, who announced her transition from Olympic gold medalist Bruce Jenner to Caitlyn in 2015, voted for Republican Trump in the 2016 presidential election despite criticism from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. In an opinion piece for the Washington Post on Thursday, she said she had hoped to work with Trump and Republican policymakers to support transgender people. "Sadly, I was wrong. The reality is that the trans community is being relentlessly attacked by this president. "He has ignored our humanity. He has insulted our dignity. He has made trans people into political pawns as he whips up animus against us in an attempt to energize the most right-wing segment of his party," Jenner wrote. Jenner`s opinion piece was published after a report this week that the Trump administration was attempting to create a narrow definition of gender as being only male or female and unchangeable once it is determined at birth. "It is unacceptable, it is upsetting, and it has deeply, personally hurt me," wrote Jenner, the former patriarch on reality television show "Keeping Up with the Kardashians." Jenner and rapper Kanye West who is married to Kim Kardashian have been two of the biggest celebrity supporters of Trump. But she wrote on Thursday, "I cannot support anyone who is working against our community. I do not support Trump. I must learn from my mistakes and move forward." Jenner was not immediately available for further comment.

Trump has ignored our humanity: American transgender celebrity Caitlyn Jenner

Thirteen members of the transgender community will be contesting the&nbsp;July 25&nbsp;elections on various seats across Pakistan, the All Pakistan Transgender Election Network (Apten) said today.

It said two transgender leaders - Nayab Ali and Lubna Lal - will contest on Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf Gulalai (PTI-G) tickets, while the remaining 11 candidates will run as independents, Dawn reported.

However, they said, at least two transgender people - one in Peshawar and another in Haripur - were unable to submit nomination papers because they were beaten up and harassed after their intentions to contest elections became public knowledge.

Apten, a rights group focusing on the invisibility of leaders from the transgender community, comprises TransAction KP, the Sindh Transgender Welfare Network, the Balochistan Alliance for Transgender and Intersex Community and the Punjab Transgender Foundation.

The group, led by TransAction KP President Farzana Jan, also demanded removal of systemic barriers to entry of transgender people into politics, and for political parties to induct more members of the community into their ranks.

It said the network would form its own political party after the elections. The group said that it was aiming for the party to be registered before local body elections.

In 2009, Pakistan became one of the first countries in the world to legally recognise a third sex, allowing transgenders to obtain identity cards. They number at least half a million people in the country, according to several studies, but their representation in politics and many other spheres of life remains negligible.

It said two transgender leaders - Nayab Ali and Lubna Lal - will contest on Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf Gulalai (PTI-G) tickets

Thirteen members of the transgender community will be contesting the July 25 elections on various seats across Pakistan, the All Pakistan Transgender Election Network (Apten) said today. It said two transgender leaders - Nayab Ali and Lubna Lal - will contest on Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf Gulalai (PTI-G) tickets, while the remaining 11 candidates will run as independents, Dawn reported. However, they said, at least two transgender people - one in Peshawar and another in Haripur - were unable to submit nomination papers because they were beaten up and harassed after their intentions to contest elections became public knowledge. Apten, a rights group focusing on the invisibility of leaders from the transgender community, comprises TransAction KP, the Sindh Transgender Welfare Network, the Balochistan Alliance for Transgender and Intersex Community and the Punjab Transgender Foundation. The group, led by TransAction KP President Farzana Jan, also demanded removal of systemic barriers to entry of transgender people into politics, and for political parties to induct more members of the community into their ranks. It said the network would form its own political party after the elections. The group said that it was aiming for the party to be registered before local body elections. In 2009, Pakistan became one of the first countries in the world to legally recognise a third sex, allowing transgenders to obtain identity cards. They number at least half a million people in the country, according to several studies, but their representation in politics and many other spheres of life remains negligible.

13 transgenders to contest July 25 elections in Pakistan

The government has amended Income Tax rules that will now allow transgenders to be recognised as an independent category of applicants for obtaining a Permanent Account Number (PAN) for their tax-related transactions.

As per reports, Form 49A and 49AA will now have an option of transgender along with 'Male'and 'Female'category. Aadhaar and voter ID cards already have the 'third gender'option.

Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), which is responsible for framing a policy for the department, had earlier issued a notification on Monday, April 9, providing a new tick box for transgenders to apply for PAN.&nbsp

The notification, issued under sections 139A and 295 of the Income Tax Act, specifies the new application process for obtaining a PAN number by an individual.

"Individuals from the transgender community were facing hassles in obtaining a PAN card and this problem was further magnified as Aadhaar had the third gender category but not PAN. "Hence, the transgenders were not able to link their PAN with their Aadhaar due to this anomaly," the official said.

Also, transgenders who are eligible to file income tax returns (ITR) were likely to face similar problems of their return not being processed by the tax department as the PAN would not have linked with Aadhaar due to mismatch in gender details.

The government has now made quoting of Aadhaar mandatory for filing income tax returns as well as obtaining a new PAN.

Section 139 AA (2) of the Income Tax Act says that every person having PAN as on July 1, 2017, and eligible to obtain Aadhaar, must intimate his Aadhaar number to the tax authorities.&nbsp

Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), which is responsible for framing a policy for the department, had earlier issued a notification on Monday, April 9, providing a new tick box for transgenders to apply for PAN

The government has amended Income Tax rules that will now allow transgenders to be recognised as an independent category of applicants for obtaining a Permanent Account Number (PAN) for their tax-related transactions. As per reports, Form 49A and 49AA will now have an option of transgender along with 'Male'and 'Female'category. Aadhaar and voter ID cards already have the 'third gender'option. Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), which is responsible for framing a policy for the department, had earlier issued a notification on Monday, April 9, providing a new tick box for transgenders to apply for PAN. The notification, issued under sections 139A and 295 of the Income Tax Act, specifies the new application process for obtaining a PAN number by an individual. "Individuals from the transgender community were facing hassles in obtaining a PAN card and this problem was further magnified as Aadhaar had the third gender category but not PAN. "Hence, the transgenders were not able to link their PAN with their Aadhaar due to this anomaly," the official said. Also, transgenders who are eligible to file income tax returns (ITR) were likely to face similar problems of their return not being processed by the tax department as the PAN would not have linked with Aadhaar due to mismatch in gender details. The government has now made quoting of Aadhaar mandatory for filing income tax returns as well as obtaining a new PAN. Section 139 AA (2) of the Income Tax Act says that every person having PAN as on July 1, 2017, and eligible to obtain Aadhaar, must intimate his Aadhaar number to the tax authorities.

Transgenders can now issue PAN cards under 'Independent' gender category

Transgender weightlifter Laurel Hubbard withdrew midway through the Commonwealth Games tournament on Monday despite leading the standings after the snatch in the 90kg-plus division.

The 40-year-old suffered an elbow injury when attempting a Commonwealth record 132kg in the snatch when leading the women's 90kg-plus division.

She lifted 120kg in her first attempt, then stupmed at 127kg, Hubbard raised the weight another 5kg for her third attempt to break her own record of 131kg.

Shortly into the clean and jerk component, it was announced that Hubbard had declined her lifts.

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The New Zealander, who lived as Gavin Hubbard until four years ago and competed at national level as a man, finished second in the women's super-heavyweights behind American Sarah Robles at the world championships in December.

Earlier on Monday, Commonwealth Games Federation chief executive David Grevemberg called on her nation to support the lifter.

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"I hope all New Zealanders... would get behind one of their athletes that has gone through the pathway to achieve greatness, and within the rules of the sport," Grevemberg told reporters.

Hubbard was cleared by the International Weightlifting Federation to compete in women's tournaments last year. Hubbard was a silver medallist at last year's world championships in the United States and was a dominant favourite to win gold on Monday.&nbsp;

The 40-year-old suffered an elbow injury when attempting a Commonwealth record 132kg in the snatch when leading the women's 90kg-plus division

Transgender weightlifter Laurel Hubbard withdrew midway through the Commonwealth Games tournament on Monday despite leading the standings after the snatch in the 90kg-plus division. The 40-year-old suffered an elbow injury when attempting a Commonwealth record 132kg in the snatch when leading the women's 90kg-plus division. She lifted 120kg in her first attempt, then stupmed at 127kg, Hubbard raised the weight another 5kg for her third attempt to break her own record of 131kg. Shortly into the clean and jerk component, it was announced that Hubbard had declined her lifts. The New Zealander, who lived as Gavin Hubbard until four years ago and competed at national level as a man, finished second in the women's super-heavyweights behind American Sarah Robles at the world championships in December. Earlier on Monday, Commonwealth Games Federation chief executive David Grevemberg called on her nation to support the lifter. "I hope all New Zealanders... would get behind one of their athletes that has gone through the pathway to achieve greatness, and within the rules of the sport," Grevemberg told reporters. Hubbard was cleared by the International Weightlifting Federation to compete in women's tournaments last year. Hubbard was a silver medallist at last year's world championships in the United States and was a dominant favourite to win gold on Monday.

CWG 2018: New Zealand transgender weightlifter withdraws mid-event

Walking on the path of social reform, Pakistan is to inaugurate country's first ever institute for educational and vocational training for transgender community.

Named The Gender Guardian, the school offers a full 12 years of academic education from the primary level to matriculation, and then leading up to college.

As per a news report by the Dawn on Friday, The Gender Guardian school will be inaugurated on April 15 at Lahore under the aegis of Asif Shahzad, who is also school's founder.

The school has been built by an NGO named Exploring Future Foundation which is set to open two more branches of the school in Islamabad and Karachi

The school will also impart technical education, such as fashion designing, beautician and hair styling courses, graphic designing, computer and mobile repairing, among others.

It will have separate wings for primary, matriculation and also graduation-level classes.

Shahzad said that the school has 15 faculty members — three of whom themselves are from the transgender community.

Shahzad said," School has 15 faculty members three of whom themselves are from the transgender community".

The management said that more than 40 aspiring students from the transgender community have already registered with the soon-to-be operational school and will be a part of the opening batch.

The school will be formally launched through an opening ceremony at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore's Alhamra Hall, with several names from the showbiz industry expected to attend.

The Gender Guardian school will be inaugurated on April 15 at Lahore under the aegis of Asif Shahzad, who is also school's founder

Walking on the path of social reform, Pakistan is to inaugurate country's first ever institute for educational and vocational training for transgender community. Named The Gender Guardian, the school offers a full 12 years of academic education from the primary level to matriculation, and then leading up to college. As per a news report by the Dawn on Friday, The Gender Guardian school will be inaugurated on April 15 at Lahore under the aegis of Asif Shahzad, who is also school's founder. The school has been built by an NGO named Exploring Future Foundation which is set to open two more branches of the school in Islamabad and Karachi The school will also impart technical education, such as fashion designing, beautician and hair styling courses, graphic designing, computer and mobile repairing, among others. It will have separate wings for primary, matriculation and also graduation-level classes. Shahzad said that the school has 15 faculty members — three of whom themselves are from the transgender community. Shahzad said," School has 15 faculty members three of whom themselves are from the transgender community". The management said that more than 40 aspiring students from the transgender community have already registered with the soon-to-be operational school and will be a part of the opening batch. The school will be formally launched through an opening ceremony at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore's Alhamra Hall, with several names from the showbiz industry expected to attend.

Pakistan to open its first school for transgenders

The Social Justice ministry has sent a Bill on transgender rights to the Cabinet after finalising nine amendments, including those in the definition of the term &#39;transgender&#39;, keeping with the recommendations of a parliamentary panel.

The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill that has undergone inter-ministerial consultation and was vetted by the law ministry has been sent to the Cabinet, a senior ministry official said.

The earlier definition of a transgender was &quot;neither wholly male nor female, a combination of female or male, or neither female nor male and whose sense of gender does not match with the gender assigned to that person at the time of birth&quot;, has been removed, as per the advice of the standing committee, he said.

The official said according to the new definition proposed in the Bill, &quot;a transgender means a person whose gender does not match with the gender assigned to that person at birth and includes trans-man or trans-women (whether or not such persons has undergone sex reassignment surgery or hormone therapy or laser therapy or such other therapy)&quot;.

It also includes person with intersex variations, gender-queer and person having such socio-cultural identities such as &#39;kinnar&#39;, &#39;hijra&#39;, &#39;aravani&#39; and &#39;jogta&#39;, he said.

The ministry has also done away with the provision of recommendation required from district screening committees for issuing certificate, if a transgender undergoes a surgery to change his or her gender.

A transgender, who has already been issued a certificate and undergoes a surgery to his or her gender, may now get a it from the medical superintendent or chief medical officer, authenticating the same to make an application to the district magistrate for a revised certificate.

&quot;The district magistrate on receipt of an application and after being satisfied will issue a certificate indicating change in gender in such form and manner and within such time, as may be prescribed,&quot; the official said.

The standing committee had called for removing some provisions after hearing the contentions of the stakeholders that transgenders were reluctant to undergo physical examination in front of the district screening committee for a certificate.

&quot;The standing committee wondered why will the same person would apply again for a certificate and undergo the same procedure which he went earlier,&quot; the official said.

Besides, now every establishment, irrespective of how many people are employed there, will have to designate a officer to deal with complaints, he said. Earlier, establishments of 100 or more people had to designate a complaint officer.

The standing committee had expressed dismay over the functions of the national council for redressal of grievances of transgenders not being precisely mentioned, the officials said.

It had recommended that the council be vested with more power and that its powers and functions be elaborated, he said.

Following this, the Centre has specified that the council will advise the central government on the formulation of policies, programmes, legislation and projects for transgenders, the official said.

The ministry did not make any changes on the recommendation that transgenders be exempted from Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) which criminalises homosexuality and including them in the other backward classes category.

The council will also monitor and evaluate the impact of policies and programmes designed for achieving equality and full participation of transgenders, review and coordinate the activities of all departments and NGOs, redress grievances among others.&nbsp;

The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill that has undergone inter-ministerial consultation

The Social Justice ministry has sent a Bill on transgender rights to the Cabinet after finalising nine amendments, including those in the definition of the term 'transgender', keeping with the recommendations of a parliamentary panel. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill that has undergone inter-ministerial consultation and was vetted by the law ministry has been sent to the Cabinet, a senior ministry official said. The earlier definition of a transgender was "neither wholly male nor female, a combination of female or male, or neither female nor male and whose sense of gender does not match with the gender assigned to that person at the time of birth", has been removed, as per the advice of the standing committee, he said. The official said according to the new definition proposed in the Bill, "a transgender means a person whose gender does not match with the gender assigned to that person at birth and includes trans-man or trans-women (whether or not such persons has undergone sex reassignment surgery or hormone therapy or laser therapy or such other therapy)". It also includes person with intersex variations, gender-queer and person having such socio-cultural identities such as 'kinnar', 'hijra', 'aravani' and 'jogta', he said. The ministry has also done away with the provision of recommendation required from district screening committees for issuing certificate, if a transgender undergoes a surgery to change his or her gender. A transgender, who has already been issued a certificate and undergoes a surgery to his or her gender, may now get a it from the medical superintendent or chief medical officer, authenticating the same to make an application to the district magistrate for a revised certificate. "The district magistrate on receipt of an application and after being satisfied will issue a certificate indicating change in gender in such form and manner and within such time, as may be prescribed," the official said. The standing committee had called for removing some provisions after hearing the contentions of the stakeholders that transgenders were reluctant to undergo physical examination in front of the district screening committee for a certificate. "The standing committee wondered why will the same person would apply again for a certificate and undergo the same procedure which he went earlier," the official said. Besides, now every establishment, irrespective of how many people are employed there, will have to designate a officer to deal with complaints, he said. Earlier, establishments of 100 or more people had to designate a complaint officer. The standing committee had expressed dismay over the functions of the national council for redressal of grievances of transgenders not being precisely mentioned, the officials said. It had recommended that the council be vested with more power and that its powers and functions be elaborated, he said. Following this, the Centre has specified that the council will advise the central government on the formulation of policies, programmes, legislation and projects for transgenders, the official said. The ministry did not make any changes on the recommendation that transgenders be exempted from Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) which criminalises homosexuality and including them in the other backward classes category. The council will also monitor and evaluate the impact of policies and programmes designed for achieving equality and full participation of transgenders, review and coordinate the activities of all departments and NGOs, redress grievances among others.

Bill on transgender rights sent to Cabinet

Google Doodle celebrated International Women&#39;s Day with 12 different powerful doodles compiled in one main doodle on Thursday.

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The doodle is featuring doodles made by twelve artists from twelve different countries.

The search engine had asked artists to contribute and illustrate the reflections of their own personal experiences as women.

The brief that was given to the artists was &#39;growth&#39;.

Reportedly the illustrators who made these colourful comics are from Japan, England, Brazil, Thailand, Sri Lanka, South Africa, America, India, Germany, Mexico, Pakistan, and Italy.&nbsp;

Each doodle tells a&nbsp;story of a moment, an event or a person that made an impact on their life the most, and portrays the different generation&nbsp;of women at various times in their life.

Stories related to a moment of becoming a mother to narrating the experience of&nbsp;coming&nbsp;out&nbsp;as a&nbsp;transgender woman.

Google had asked artists to contribute and illustrate the reflections of their own personal experiences as women

Google Doodle celebrated International Women's Day with 12 different powerful doodles compiled in one main doodle on Thursday. × The doodle is featuring doodles made by twelve artists from twelve different countries. The search engine had asked artists to contribute and illustrate the reflections of their own personal experiences as women. The brief that was given to the artists was 'growth'. Reportedly the illustrators who made these colourful comics are from Japan, England, Brazil, Thailand, Sri Lanka, South Africa, America, India, Germany, Mexico, Pakistan, and Italy. Each doodle tells a story of a moment, an event or a person that made an impact on their life the most, and portrays the different generation of women at various times in their life. Stories related to a moment of becoming a mother to narrating the experience of coming out as a transgender woman.

Watch: Google celebrates International Women's Day with twelve doodles

The 90th Oscars was a night of many firsts. One such moment was when Daniela Vega came on stage to introduce a performance by Sufjan Stevens, whose song Mystery of Love&nbsp;from the Call Me By Your Name&nbsp;soundtrack was nominated for the best original song. 
 
On Sunday night, Daniela Vega became the first openly transgender person to present at the big ceremony.&nbsp; 
 
On stage, Vega acknowledged the importance of her presence on stage. &quot;Thank you so much for this moment,&quot; she said before introducing Stevens. 
 
The night was special for Vega as A Fantastic Woman, a Chilean film about a trans woman mourning the death of her partner, won the award for best foreign language film. Vega has played the lead role in the film.&nbsp;

The 90th Oscars was a night of many firsts.

The 90th Oscars was a night of many firsts. One such moment was when Daniela Vega came on stage to introduce a performance by Sufjan Stevens, whose song Mystery of Love from the Call Me By Your Name soundtrack was nominated for the best original song. On Sunday night, Daniela Vega became the first openly transgender person to present at the big ceremony. On stage, Vega acknowledged the importance of her presence on stage. "Thank you so much for this moment," she said before introducing Stevens. The night was special for Vega as A Fantastic Woman, a Chilean film about a trans woman mourning the death of her partner, won the award for best foreign language film. Vega has played the lead role in the film.

Daniela Vega became the first transgender to present at the Oscars

The Supreme Court to hear the writ petition filed by trans-woman Shanavi Ponnusamy, who alleged Air India, refused her a job due to her gender, on March 5.

On February 14, Ponnusamy wrote a letter to President Ram Nath Kovind, seeking permission for mercy killing as she was allegedly refused the job of cabin crew in Air India due to her gender.

Sanavi Ponnusami has alleged that Air India rejected her, telling her that they don&#39;t have a category for trans-women.

She had said that her living condition is not great and can&#39;t afford advocates to fight a case, as the Supreme Court listens to cases like hers.

She approached the Apex Court against the alleged discrimination in 2017.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

On February 14, Ponnusamy wrote a letter to President Ram Nath Kovind, seeking permission for mercy killing as she was allegedly refused the job of cabin crew in Air India due to her gender

The Supreme Court to hear the writ petition filed by trans-woman Shanavi Ponnusamy, who alleged Air India, refused her a job due to her gender, on March 5. On February 14, Ponnusamy wrote a letter to President Ram Nath Kovind, seeking permission for mercy killing as she was allegedly refused the job of cabin crew in Air India due to her gender. Sanavi Ponnusami has alleged that Air India rejected her, telling her that they don't have a category for trans-women. She had said that her living condition is not great and can't afford advocates to fight a case, as the Supreme Court listens to cases like hers. She approached the Apex Court against the alleged discrimination in 2017.

Supreme Court to hear writ petition by trans-woman Shanavi Ponnusamy

The Australian Football League has agreed to let a transgender player participate in the country`s second-tier state women`s competition while the governing body considers its gender diversity policy for the national league.

Hannah Mouncey, a former national men`s handball representative, last October lost her bid to take part in the AFL Women`s (AFLW) national draft, barring her from the 2018 elite-level season.&nbsp;

Several clubs had reportedly shown interest in drafting Mouncey, who is 1.90 metres tall (6ft 2in).

The league ruled her out due to the advantage her physical strength and stamina would have over opponents in the newly formed semi-professional competition but left the door ajar for this year`s draft as it finalises its gender diversity policy.&nbsp;

On Tuesday the AFL made a landmark recommendation clearing Mouncey to play in the country`s second-tier state competition.&nbsp;

The pioneering transgender player welcomed the decision but described the last four months of deliberation as a &quot;circus&quot;, with a lack of understanding of the science of gender transition.

&quot;I welcome the AFL`s decision, and I look forward to hopefully playing this season,&quot; Mouncey said in a Twitter statement.

But she added: &quot;I will not and I think it would be highly inappropriate for me to thank the AFL for allowing me to do something open to every other Australian, which the science and the research has supported all along.&quot;

The AFL in 2017 introduced a semi-professional national women`s league, which has been heralded as a pioneer for inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

The national league said Tuesday it was still finalising its gender diversity policy, noting the International Olympic Committee was also reviewing its guidelines on trans participation.&nbsp;

It added the Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Human Rights Commission were also working on a framework for trans and gender participation in Australian sport more generally.&nbsp;

&quot;We are committed to inclusion, and want all Australians to be able to play or participate in our game,&quot; AFL inclusion and social policy manager Tanya Hosch said in a statement.

Hannah Mouncey, a former national men`s handball representative, last October lost her bid to take part in the AFL Women`s (AFLW) national draft, barring her from the 2018 elite-level season

The Australian Football League has agreed to let a transgender player participate in the country`s second-tier state women`s competition while the governing body considers its gender diversity policy for the national league. Hannah Mouncey, a former national men`s handball representative, last October lost her bid to take part in the AFL Women`s (AFLW) national draft, barring her from the 2018 elite-level season. Several clubs had reportedly shown interest in drafting Mouncey, who is 1.90 metres tall (6ft 2in). The league ruled her out due to the advantage her physical strength and stamina would have over opponents in the newly formed semi-professional competition but left the door ajar for this year`s draft as it finalises its gender diversity policy. On Tuesday the AFL made a landmark recommendation clearing Mouncey to play in the country`s second-tier state competition. The pioneering transgender player welcomed the decision but described the last four months of deliberation as a "circus", with a lack of understanding of the science of gender transition. "I welcome the AFL`s decision, and I look forward to hopefully playing this season," Mouncey said in a Twitter statement. But she added: "I will not and I think it would be highly inappropriate for me to thank the AFL for allowing me to do something open to every other Australian, which the science and the research has supported all along." The AFL in 2017 introduced a semi-professional national women`s league, which has been heralded as a pioneer for inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominated sport. The national league said Tuesday it was still finalising its gender diversity policy, noting the International Olympic Committee was also reviewing its guidelines on trans participation. It added the Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Human Rights Commission were also working on a framework for trans and gender participation in Australian sport more generally. "We are committed to inclusion, and want all Australians to be able to play or participate in our game," AFL inclusion and social policy manager Tanya Hosch said in a statement.

Australian Football League Rules allows transgender player at state level

Transgender whistleblower Chelsea Manning, jailed for leaking classified information, is seeking election in the US state of Maryland, a document seen on Saturday says.

The Federal Election Commission document, filed Thursday, lists Chelsea Elizabeth Manning of North Bethesda, Maryland, as a Democratic candidate for the United States senate.

Manning, now 30, was an army intelligence analyst sentenced to 35 years in prison in 2013 for leaking more than 700,000 classified documents related to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The revelations by Manning, then known as Bradley Manning, exposed covered-up misdeeds and possible crimes by US troops and allies.

Her actions made Manning a hero to anti-war and anti-secrecy activists but US establishment figures branded her a traitor.

Then-president Barack Obama commuted Manning&#39;s sentence, leading to her release in May.

During her incarceration, Manning battled for, and won, the right to start hormone treatment. On Twitter, she identifies herself as a &quot;trans woman,&quot; and carries the slogan: &quot;Make powerful people angry.&quot;

The Democratic Senate incumbent is Ben Cardin, who was first elected in 2006 and is the senior Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

In elections last year, transgender candidate Danika Roem was elected to the Virginia state House of Delegates, becoming the first openly transgender lawmaker in the United States.

US President Donald Trump has labeled Manning a traitor.

He also tried to bar transgender personnel from the military, but federal courts ruled against that ban.

Transgender whistleblower Chelsea Manning, jailed for leaking classified information, is seeking election in the US state of Maryland, a document seen on Saturday says

Transgender whistleblower Chelsea Manning, jailed for leaking classified information, is seeking election in the US state of Maryland, a document seen on Saturday says. The Federal Election Commission document, filed Thursday, lists Chelsea Elizabeth Manning of North Bethesda, Maryland, as a Democratic candidate for the United States senate. Manning, now 30, was an army intelligence analyst sentenced to 35 years in prison in 2013 for leaking more than 700,000 classified documents related to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The revelations by Manning, then known as Bradley Manning, exposed covered-up misdeeds and possible crimes by US troops and allies. Her actions made Manning a hero to anti-war and anti-secrecy activists but US establishment figures branded her a traitor. Then-president Barack Obama commuted Manning's sentence, leading to her release in May. During her incarceration, Manning battled for, and won, the right to start hormone treatment. On Twitter, she identifies herself as a "trans woman," and carries the slogan: "Make powerful people angry." The Democratic Senate incumbent is Ben Cardin, who was first elected in 2006 and is the senior Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In elections last year, transgender candidate Danika Roem was elected to the Virginia state House of Delegates, becoming the first openly transgender lawmaker in the United States. US President Donald Trump has labeled Manning a traitor. He also tried to bar transgender personnel from the military, but federal courts ruled against that ban.

Transgender whistleblower Manning seeks US Senate seat

A transgender was shot dead by unknown assailants in Peshawar&#39;s Cantonment area on Sunday.

According to the Dawn, a number of armed attackers opened fire at the transgender in Khyber Supermarket.

The victim, with three bullet wounds, was rushed to the Lady Reading Hospital (LRH) for the treatment in critical condition; however, she succumbed to her injuries.

&quot;After receiving her, doctors shifted the injured to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and provided treatment,&quot; the LRH spokesperson Asim Khan said and added that the victim succumbed to her injuries in the ICU.

The transgender community has demanded the arrest of the killers.

The police have launched a search operation to nab the culprits.

However, initial reports have confirmed that one of the attackers was a friend of the victim.&nbsp;

According to the Dawn, a number of armed attackers opened fire at the transgender in Khyber Supermarket.

A transgender was shot dead by unknown assailants in Peshawar's Cantonment area on Sunday. According to the Dawn, a number of armed attackers opened fire at the transgender in Khyber Supermarket. The victim, with three bullet wounds, was rushed to the Lady Reading Hospital (LRH) for the treatment in critical condition; however, she succumbed to her injuries. "After receiving her, doctors shifted the injured to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and provided treatment," the LRH spokesperson Asim Khan said and added that the victim succumbed to her injuries in the ICU. The transgender community has demanded the arrest of the killers. The police have launched a search operation to nab the culprits. However, initial reports have confirmed that one of the attackers was a friend of the victim.

Transgender shot dead in Pakistan

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