Breaking the barriers, Sanjana Singh becomes the first transgender woman to get a government job in Madhya Pradesh. The 36-year-old has been appointed as the personal secretary to the director of the state’s Department of Social Justice and Disabled Welfare (DSJDW). With this, Sanjana has set a great precedence for members of the transgender community in India. 

Sanjana faced hardships as a teenager 

Sanjana said that it was her childhood dream to create social awareness among transgenders and to be a participant in mainstream society and create a benchmark for them. Delighted over her achievement, Sanjana, who was reportedly forced to abandon her family at 15 and join a transgender group has finally reached her ‘due place in society,’ reported News18. 

Recollecting her early life struggles, Sanjana said she was forced to go door-to-door and sing and dance on various ceremonies like marriage functions and children’s birthdays. She never liked what she did, as a result of this she was abandoned by her community.

Her various campaigns and social work

Singh first came to limelight in 2015 after she vigorously campaigned against open defecation in Madhya Pradesh. She and her NGO has even collaborated with the Madhya Pradesh government on Swachhta Mission. She has been associated with the mission since 2014. Her dedication and hard work were acknowledged by the Madhya Pradesh government and she was made the brand ambassador of for the drive. Actor Amitabh Bachchan felicitated her with an award for her contribution in this field.

Sanjana, before the present posting, had become the first para-legal volunteer of District Legal Services Tribunal and was also a nominated member of the Lok Adalat of the tribunal. Earlier in 2008, she was working with an NGO which focused on child and women health. Not only did her family abandon her, but also the transgender community with whom she grew up also deserted her after Singh refused to be a part of the group which seeks money during celebrations.

Singh understands the stigma that surrounds the transgender community in India and after having earned a respectable job, she has reportedly asked other community members to come forward and contribute to the society. She also highlighted the need to provide more support and opportunities to the marginalised community.  She asked that if reservation could be extended to others, then why not the transgender community.

While this news is a first for Madhya Pradesh, it is certainly not the first in India. Previously in several different parts of the country, members of the transgender community have been appointed in government job positions as well. This move comes as a massive boost to the community, which has majorly experienced stigma, harassment and discrimination. The Logical Indian community appreciates Sanjana Singh’s achievements.

Also Read: Gujarat Govt Establishes Transgender Welfare Board; Housing, Education & Other Issues To Be Taken Care Of