In 2021, amidst the relentless onslaught of the second wave of COVID-19 in Bengaluru, two transgender women, Anandi and Aisha Kousar, were faced with a dire situation. Struggling to make ends meet, they made the difficult decision to sell their gold earrings to survive. With unwavering determination, the pair managed to acquire a pushcart, stove, gas, and basic cooking equipment, embarking on a journey to sell tea and snacks to workers at Hudson Circle, all while caring for their three adopted children. This narrative of resilience and resourcefulness, however, starkly contrasts with the broader challenges faced by the transgender community in accessing fundamental rights such as education, employment opportunities, and support for entrepreneurship.
Challenges Faced by Transgender Community:
Despite the commendable efforts of individuals like Anandi and Aisha, many in the transgender community continue to confront significant obstacles in achieving economic stability and social acceptance. The lack of sustained attention and meaningful welfare measures from the State government and local bodies perpetuates a cycle of marginalization and exclusion for sexual minorities. The recent State and civic Budgets in Karnataka have underscored the glaring oversight and neglect of the transgender community, fueling frustrations and calls for urgent action.
State Budget Disappointments:
The Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka government recently unveiled its Budget for 2025-26, drawing sharp criticism for the glaring absence of allocations for sexual minorities in the State. Following the Budget announcement, members of the Movement for Gender and Sexual Pluralism (MGSP) voiced their concerns over the continued marginalization experienced by gender and sexual minorities. Activists, including Manohar Elavarthi, highlighted the pressing need for dedicated welfare schemes, increased financial support for entrepreneurs, free sex reassignment surgeries, job training initiatives, and the establishment of a specialized government body to advance the welfare of the transgender community.
Expressing disappointment at the lack of response from the government, Elavarthi questioned why substantial funds could not be allocated to uplift marginalized communities in a Budget exceeding ₹4 lakh crore. The 2011 census data indicated a transgender population of 20,266 in Karnataka, a figure that is believed to have increased significantly in recent years, further underscoring the urgency of addressing the needs of this community.
Civic Budget Shortfalls:
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) unveiled its Budget for 2025-26, signaling limited support for economically backward classes, including the transgender community. With an allocation of ₹10 crore for the welfare of marginalized groups, the BBMP’s budgetary provisions fall short of addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by transgender individuals in Bengaluru. The lack of comprehensive support mechanisms for education, training, and entrepreneurship perpetuates cycles of poverty and social exclusion, hindering the community’s prospects for economic empowerment.
Personal Stories Highlight the Struggles:
The stories of individuals like Rekha and Meena shed light on the day-to-day struggles faced by transgender individuals in accessing education and employment opportunities. Rekha’s plea for support underscores the transformative impact that government schemes and job training programs could have on marginalized communities. Similarly, Meena’s journey as a trained beautician navigating societal prejudices and economic barriers underscores the urgent need for interventions that promote inclusivity and economic empowerment for transgender entrepreneurs.
A Call for Comprehensive Support:
Transgender activist Akkai Padmashali emphasizes the importance of extending educational and employment opportunities to the transgender community beyond the symbolic gestures of guarantees. While the recent commitments from the State government are welcomed, there is a pressing need for concrete actions that address systemic barriers and promote inclusive policies that foster economic independence and social integration for sexual minorities.
In conclusion, the persistent challenges faced by the transgender community underscore the urgent need for comprehensive support mechanisms, inclusive policies, and dedicated budgetary allocations that prioritize the welfare and empowerment of marginalized groups. As advocates, activists, and community members continue to amplify their voices and demand meaningful reforms, the onus lies on policymakers to translate promises into tangible actions that uphold the principles of equality, dignity, and inclusion for all individuals, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
