Transgenders in church and state: Bharathi and Anu

All of us working towards equal rights demand separation of church and state, specifically that government policies and laws around LGBT non-discrimination and inclusion not be influenced by beliefs grounded in religion.

At the same time, some of us are seeking inclusion within these very institutions. Orinam is pleased to report two developments that bode well for our trans communities in India.

First, from Bangalore, comes the welcome news that  the  High Court, on Feb 5, 2012,  took on board a 27-year-old transgender in the Group D category. “C. Anu, daughter of the late Chennappa, a painter, and a resident of New Geddalahalli in Bangalore, received the appointment letter from Altamas Kabir, judge of the Supreme Court, and Karnataka High Court Chief Justice Vikramajit Sen during the valedictory ceremony of the mega lok adalats held here” says The Hindu.

Next, The Hindu’s Chennai edition, Feb 6, 2011, reports that the Church of South India Diocesan Ministerial Committee is reviewing a proposal to ordain Bharathi, a transwoman, as a priest. Bharathi has a Bachelor’s in Theology and is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Divinity in Tamil Nadu Theological Seminary. Reverend Devasahayam, Bishop of Madras Diocese, has been quoted as saying “we have asked her to visit various congregations to sensitise and educate people to recognise and respect the identity of her community”. Coverage by the Times of India is here.

Here’s wishing Anu and Bharathi much success in their chosen paths, and in forging new ones.