Transgenders have a right to human dignity

Transgenders have a right to human dignity

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, May 23, 2014: Members of a transgender group  interacting with local children at ‘Aata pata makkala santhasa kalika’ summer camp, organised by Bajal Yuvaka Mandala at Pakkaladka here on May 21 made an impact that should spread further.  Rani, a transgender and president of sexual minority group stated, “We have  human aspirations and have dreams of living as a family as normal members. If we are disowned and abandoned by our family we will be totally lost and have no means for our livelihood, thus we loose our respect in society”.

 Rani  emotionally added,  “We were not given ration cards or voters identity card. None would employ us. Even while renting out a house, the owners are very choosy.   Begging and the like are the only way for us?  Like all people we too need ration card, voters ID and security in employment too. Who is to advocate our cause? No one looks at us as humans.” Discussing problems related to sexual minorities, Rani said “I was born as a male called Raghavendra, but later realised my  psycho out look and orientation was  female.

Watching my unusual behaviour, my parents almost disowned me, they were ashamed of me.  There was no other route but to leave home and seek shelter with like minded groups.  There are thousands like me who are caught in traps of sexuality and are unable to make them selves heard  as society does not accept them. The matter is very complicated , government and society at large have to look at our strange plight, and find a solution, of late we see some consideration but it is far from enough.” she says.

The children of the camp wanted to know the causes on ’curse by transgenders’ , Rani said many a time public misbehave with the transgenders. “It makes me angry when mistreated, often  police constables ask  me to sit near the toilet in trains and not occupy a seat - this infuriates me.  Transgenders do not curse anyone, and their curse is the same as anyone’s. It is another blind belief that by clapping, transgenders can draw the attention of  Gods".

Rani  went on, “I have studied to fifth standard. I wanted to live like any human. However, my family members did not allow me to do so,  my education was discontinued. That is why I encourage and help transgenders who want to continue their studies .”  Anitha added. “None of the transgenders would like to work as sex workers. Begging  eats up our dignity we loose our human feeling, it does not provide us any of our needs. Many indulge in the act for money and livelihood.We need rehabilitation and jobs”  Indeed it is a grave and serious matter that NO proper solution and support is forthcoming in this matter. It was a very positive happening to see the interaction with the summer camp children which can go a long way to help constructively.