In a major decision, the transgender community in the State has resolved to demand that government recognise them as a ‘class minority’ and refused to allow caste or religious identity to creep into the community while accessing benefits from the government.
Debate
The decision was taken on Monday at a consultative meet that saw participation from various transgender organisations and over 100 members of the community.
“The government officials were confused as to under which scheme to provide us benefits. In the housing scheme, they suggested that only SC/ST transgenders could be given benefits, which triggered the debate,” explained Akkai Padmashali, co-founder of Ondede, one of the organisations working for sexual minorities. The transgenders have decided to call themselves a class minority and wish to be recognised as a backward class instead of being divided on religious or caste lines.
Fundamental identity
“The community of transgenders has been fighting for a more fundamental gender identity and there has never been any place for caste or religion. We don’t wish to be divided on community lines now,” Akkai said, adding that with the community being socio-economically backward, it was apt to be recognised as a class minority.
Karnataka Transgender Samithi and other organisations working in the space will now meet the chief minister and governor to place their demand.
Welfare board
However, the community does not wish to be brought under the umbrella of the Karnataka Backward Classes Commission.
They want the State government to form a Transgender Commission and a Transgender Welfare Board to work for the betterment of the community.
