Chennai Metro has taken the initiative to employ transgenders. Following the example of Kochi Metro that employed 23 transgenders, Chennai Metro Rail Limited officials announced the hiring of one transgender.

Kochi Metro had set an example by hiring transgenders and giving them new lease of life. This was hugely appreciated countrywide and now Chennai is following suite. However, 9 out of 23 transgenders employed quit Kochi Metro after its inauguration siting various reasons. While many transgenders are more than willing to take up the new opportunities, staying in their new jobs depend on the acceptance they receive at the new work place.

“There are several in our community who have completed graduation and post-graduation in many disciplines. The main issue for them is to feel accepted at a work place. We should have an atmosphere wherein we are not constantly stared at and dealt with in a degrading way.”,The Hindu reported R. Jeeva of Transgender Rights Association as saying. 

The members of the community expect CMRL to make an announcement regarding the hiring and ensure awareness among the commuters.

Accepting transgenders as part of our society and creating equal opportunities to them is definitely the way forward. Kudos to Chennai Metro Rail for taking this step in the right direction.