This Republic Day was an unforgettable one for M Sneha, in her own words. The transperson was the Chief guest at Subbaiah Memorial School in Tiruchy on Republic Day. As she hoisted the national flag, she had tears of joy in her eyes, as she says she got the recognition she deserved. Amidst claps by teachers, the Principal and students present at the function, 41-year-old Sneha hoisted the national flag.
Speaking to the students, she said that this was one of the proudest moments of her life. "I am grateful for this opportunity and thank the principal. I want to ask students to help trans people. The greatest help you can do is by accepting them as one of your own. Have a goal and follow it," said Sneha. This happened due to the Principal of the school, KS Jeevanandhan. "I wanted to do something special this year. I remember seeing a transwoman last week and thought it would be nice to have a transgender be our chief guest this year. I found M Sneha, who is working at the district Collectorate as a driver. I wanted this to be a moment of acceptance for our students too. I want to create awareness amongst students and teachers and explain the importance of transpeople in society," said Jeevanandan.
For Sneha, after getting the government job (temporary) more than three years back, this was one of the happiest moments. "I was on cloud nine today. Despite working as a driver for more than 12 years, people still look at me differently. People must accept us. If we teach children properly, they understand and accept us. I hope that the next generation of transpeople get opportunities in government jobs,-" added Sneha. Sneha is theransperson working as a driver at the Tiruchy Collectorate. Having dropped out of school at 14, Sneha was drawn to driving as her brother was a driver. She learnt driving and dreamed of driving a siren car. After various odd jobs, as a cook, she found a job as a driver 12 years back. Now, she hopes that her job is made permanent and that more transpeople get government jobs.