Tamil Nadu transperson creates history, becomes first lawyer to be registered as ‘third gender

Since childhood, Satyashri, who belongs to Paramakudi, had been certain of two things – one, that she was a transperson and second, that she wanted to pursue law as a vocation. “I had always wanted to study and have a better life, though I identify as a transperson. I did my Bachelor of Corporate Secretaryship. (B.C.S) in Paramakudi after which, I did my B.L (Bachelor of Law) at Central Law College, Salem from 2004-2007. 

Back then, there was no option of a ‘third gender’. Once I completed my law studies, I worked with the community at the grassroots level for rights of trans-persons. Now that there is an option of a third gender after the National Legal Services Authority of India (NALSA) case, I wanted to be recognised as a transperson who is a lawyer,” she said.

Satyashri, whose registration is the first-of-its-kind in the state, had set a precedent. “When I approached the Bar Council, I was told that this was the first time that they had received such a case and until then, there was no option of a third gender. 

The members encouraged me and asked me to file an application, which I did in February. I will be a lawyer registered with the Council today,” said Satyashri, who aims to work towards providing a better quality of life for the trans-community.

Despite the discrimination at every step, Satyashri has come a long way. “Discrimination has become a part of a transperson’s life. It also depends on the people’s mentality – who will first view me as a transperson and treat me differently. Once they find out that I have a BL degree, their perception will change. This will take time,” said the soon-to-be-advocate. 

For Satyashri, gender is not a stumbling block. “Irrespective of your gender, you need to be confident. That is what matters,” said the resident of Chengalpattu.