CBOs working for transgenders, sex workers demand 'safe shelter'

A delegation of representatives from community based organisations (CBOs) working for transgenders, sex workers and urban poor in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Maharashtra, on Wednesday met with Minister of Women and Child Development, Krishna Tirath.

The delegation apprised the Minister of their problems and issues of integrating with the society as a result of discrimination and stigma that is associated with their work.

They informed the Minister that many of their problems emerged due to their nature of profession and lack of permanent address. Due to the latter, they are not able to access several schemes of the government.

One of their vital needs is safe shelter for themselves and their children, they said.

Minister Tirath was further told of the works the CBOs are engaged in, especially the prevention of trafficking, spreading awareness about AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases, and creating cooperatives to help workers in their old age.

The CBOs stated that it was mainly due to their combined efforts that the prevalence of AIDS in their areas had reduced by as much as 50%.

However, they have asked for more schemes of the government for skill development, education of their children, and for their empowerment.

The Minister noted their concerns and issues and sought suggestions from them on the measures that the government can take up for mainstreaming them with the society.

Minister Tirath also explained the benefits that can be sought through the various ongoing schemes of the Ministry of Women and Child Development such as STEP, Rashtriya Mahila Kosh, and SABLA.