In what is considered an important milestone towards securing the rights of LGBTI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersexual) community, Nepal Government  issued citizenship to a third gender, Kailash Shrestha, who identifies as Bhumika, under the ‘other’ category.

The District Administration Office Kathmandu issued the citizenship after Shrestha produced adequate documents, along with a copy of earlier citizenship certificate, to prove that Shrestha and Bhumika is the same person.

Bhumika said she will now apply for passport under ‘other’ category.

Prior to this, DAO Kailali had issued a citizenship under ‘other’ category to one Manoj Shahi, who identifies as Monica Shahi. In 2011, Nepal government had added a third gender category to census and the citizenship card.

Shahi also acquired a passport under ‘O’ category from the Department of Passport on August 10.