OPSC Introduces Third Gender Category in Odisha Civil Services Exam 2025
The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has taken a significant step toward inclusivity by adding a third gender or transgender category in the online application form for the Odisha Civil Services Examination (OCSE)-2025. This landmark change, announced in a notice issued on February 19, aims to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, aligning with constitutional principles of equality and non-discrimination.
Key Updates and Extended Deadlines
In addition to the new gender option, OPSC has extended the registration and fee payment deadline to February 27, up to 5 pm. Candidates who complete their registration by this date will have until March 7 to submit their final online applications. This extension provides ample time for applicants, particularly those affected by the new category, to prepare and apply without haste.
Documentation Requirements for Transgender Applicants
Applicants selecting the third gender or transgender option must upload an identity certificate or card issued by a competent authority. They are also required to provide supporting documents for any name changes made after obtaining third gender or transgender status. These measures ensure proper verification and streamline the application process for all candidates.
Background: OHRC's Intervention and Recommendations
The move follows recent directions from the Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC), which urged the state government to introduce a third gender or transgender option in recruitment application forms and extend the OCSE application timeline. The OHRC's intervention was prompted by a petition filed by a transgender person from Cuttack, who argued that the absence of this category effectively blocked transgender candidates from applying, constituting discrimination.
On January 22, after hearing the matter, the OHRC recommended several key actions:
- Ensure 1% reservation for transgender candidates in recruitment examinations, including OCSE.
- Instruct the general administration and social security departments to include the third gender or transgender option across all government recruitment forms.
- Direct all recruiting agencies and boards, including OPSC, to implement these changes promptly.
- Extend the application deadline by at least 15 days to allow affected candidates adequate time to apply.
OPSC's compliance with these recommendations marks a progressive shift in Odisha's public service recruitment, promoting diversity and fairness. This initiative is expected to encourage more transgender individuals to pursue careers in civil services, fostering a more inclusive administrative framework.
