Integration of Transgender in Indian Society: Realities and Possibilities

Abstract

The transgender community (trans) often faces discrimination, atrocities, harassment in the society on the grounds of their sexuality. Society gives recognition to only two binary genders i.e., male and female; other categories such as transsexual persons are considered to be an oddity. By the landmark judgement of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, trans people were recognized as the ‘third gender’ in society, with a view that the judgment will empower the transgender community to live their life with dignity and respect. However, simply providing the identity of being the third gender to the transgender community is not enough to solve their problems. The inclusion and acceptance of trans people in society is still a big dream to be achieved. Segregation causes the trans community to be vulnerable and severely marginalized in society. This paper will try to understand the gap which acts as a hindrance in the way of development forthe trans community, through life narratives of three transgender persons to help figure out the ways for bridging the gap. The authors suggest several ways through which the trans community could be integrated into the main stream society.