Rithika Sri from Tamil Nadu has created history by becoming India’s first transgender cricket umpire, marking a major milestone in promoting inclusivity and diversity in sports.
She is a transwoman from Salem who has been actively officiating matches in the Salem and Coimbatore circuits since 2021, playing a key role in breaking structural barriers within cricket administration.
Key Highlights
Historic Achievement:
- First transgender cricket umpire in India and Tamil Nadu
- Broke barriers in a traditionally male-dominated domain
Institutional Support:
- Tamil Nadu Cricket Association introduced an “Other” gender category in umpire examinations
- Enabled formal participation of transgender individuals
Background:
- Born as R. Muthuraj in Salem
- Diploma holder in Mechanical Engineering
- Previously worked in a call centre in Mohali before returning to Tamil Nadu
Umpiring Career:
- Inspired by the Indian Premier League (IPL)
- Started umpiring in 2021
- Officiated 300+ matches across Salem and Coimbatore
- Earned respect from players despite initial resistance
Challenges Faced:
- Encountered social stigma and discrimination
- Faced denial of entry at venues
- Reflects broader barriers faced by transgender individuals in public spaces
Support System:
- Backed by local cricket bodies and officials
- Gradual acceptance within the cricket ecosystem
Transgender Rights
- The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026 aims to strengthen legal safeguards and rights of transgender individuals in India
- Transgender persons are represented by the “T” in LGBTQIA+, which stands for: Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual
Significance
- Represents a major step towards gender inclusivity in Indian sports
- Encourages institutional reforms like inclusive exam categories
- Acts as an inspiration for marginalized communities
- Aligns with India’s broader push toward social justice and equal opportunity