In Landmark Move, Govt Permits IRS Officer to Officially Change Name And Gender | Exclusive

In a groundbreaking decision, the ministry of finance has approved an appeal by a senior Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer to officially change her name and gender—the first time this has happened in Indian Civil Service history.

According to the order, Ms M Anusuya, IRS (C&IT:2013) submitted a petition to the ministry, requesting the government’s approval to change her name to Mr M Anukathir Surya and her gender from female to male.

Senior IRS officers have praised the order as “progressive”, saying that this sets a historic precedent for gender inclusivity and recognition within government roles, reflecting a positive shift in attitudes towards gender diversity in India.

What the order says

The order dated July 9, a copy of which is with News18, states, “Ms M Anusuya, IRS (C&IT: 2013) [Employee Code: 4623, DOB: 20.10.1988] presently posted as Joint Commissioner in 0/o Chief Commissioner (AR), CESTAT, Hyderabad has requested for change of her name from Ms M Anusuya to Mr M Anukathir Surya and Gender from Female to Male.”

The ministry in its order stated that the request of the officer has been considered and approved. “The request of Ms M Anusuya has been considered. Henceforth, the officer will be recognised as ‘Mr M Anukathir Surya’ in all official records.” The order further added that the decision was taken with the “approval of the competent authority”.

‘Progressive in nature, reflection of inclusivity’

“This is a significant development, highlighting progress in the recognition and acceptance of gender identity within the Indian Civil Services. The approval by the ministry of finance sets a precedent for inclusivity and support for transgender individuals in government positions,” said a senior IRS officer serving in the ministry.

Officers say that this decision can inspire more inclusive policies and practices across various sectors in India. “This is pathbreaking order, we are all proud of the officer and also our ministry,” said another senior IRS officer serving in the income tax department.

The order is marked to the Chief Commissioner (AR), Customs, Excise, Service Tax Appellate Tribunal, and all Principal Chief Commissioners/ Pr Directors General under the CBIC.