44 transgenders clear physical tests for Traffic Assistants in Hyderabad Police

Hyderabad: Forty-four transgender persons on Wednesday cleared the physical efficiency tests for selection as Traffic Assistants in the Hyderabad Traffic Police Department.

Telangana government has began the process of recruiting transgenders as traffic assistants, after Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy asked the officials to appoint them as traffic volunteers to give recognition to the transgender community in the society.

In accordance with the government's instructions, events were organised for the transgenders today as per the list of candidates given by the Social Welfare Department at Goshamahal Police Ground here, a release from Hyderabad Police said.

In the recruitment process, 58 transgenders attended of which 44 were selected after 800 meters running race, long jump, shot-put competitions were conducted, it said.

Addressing them, Hyderabad Commissioner of Police CV Anand said that "you should be a role model for your community and bring a good name to Hyderabad Police and Telangana State Police Department".

Meanwhile, another senior police official said "44 transgender persons cleared the physical efficiency tests and their selection is subject to fulfilling criteria (medical and background check) and then they will be short-listed. They will be enrolled on a pilot basis for six months".

On the recruitment of transgenders, the candidates in 18-40 age group are eligible, with educational qualification of SSC. They also should have a personal identity card issued by the government and should be a resident of Hyderabad Commissionerate limits, the release said. Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) P Viswa Prasad and other officials were present.

According to the officials, after selection, these candidates would undergo a week-long to 10-day specialized training program. They will receive traffic management skills comparable to those of home guards and traffic police officers. The recruited volunteers will also be provided with a special uniform to distinguish them from other traffic personnel. Additionally, the government will offer a monthly stipend to the volunteers, ensuring both financial security and a sense of societal respect for the community.