The Transgender Question in India: Policy and Budgetary Priorities.

Abstract

This Briefing Paper attempts to put in perspective the struggle for transgender rights in India. It builds on a study of transgender women in the state of Tamil Nadu to highlight the challenges faced by the community in the absence of legal safeguards for their physical safety, well-being and financial security. The performance of the Tamil Nadu Transgender Welfare Board is evaluated as a case in point to assert the need for dedicated institutional mechanisms and policy frameworks that recognize the rights and agency of India’s transgender community. In addition, some critical questions including the need for greater accountability from families along with institutions that continue to discriminate and stigmatize the TG community, and for policy deliberation on the larger identity question are discussed.