Transgender women emerge heroes during Trilokpuri riots

Marginalized by the society and devoid of equal health and educational rights, the transgender community in the Indian society has faced rejection for years. Even after being recognized by the government as the ‘third gender,’ they continue to face prejudice.

However, the recent riots in Trilokpuri, East Delhi, saw the community emerge as heroes. According to a report by Gay Star News, a group of 15 transgender women faced an angry mob armed with swords and stones during the riots and threatened to strip in front of them, if they did not turn back.

Due to reasons still unknown, riots broke out in the area between Hindus and Muslims on Diwali last week. These Trans women reportedly, stood at the entrance of their block and told the rioters that they would take off their clothes if they did not turn back.

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Due to lack of employment opportunities, the transgender usually turn to odd jobs that include begging on the street. Considered a nuisance by the residents of the area, they managed to save an entire block because of their actions. A resident of the area told Gay Star News that they usually avoid the ‘hijras’ but at that hour, they turned out to be heroes.

Laila Sa, the chief of the group, told the Times of India: “The condition of the area was so bad that people weren't able to even walk on the roads. Sanitation staff hasn't come after the riots. Someone has to clean these streets as we all have to live here in the end.”  The Trans women have also been cleaning up the roads, picking up stones and shards with the police.

ORIGINAL SOURCE: Gay Star News

http://www.gaystarnews.com/article/india-trans-women-hold-armed-mob301014