KOLHAPUR: In a first in Maharashtra, a forum for transgender community has got a licence to run a ration shop in Kolhapur city.
“The transgender community sought a ration shop for them as they claimed they go through social discrimination, poverty, and unemployment. They made the demand to state food commission chairman Mahesh Dhawale. Following due procedure, Maitri, a forum for the transgender community, was granted the licence,” district supplies officer Mohini Chavan said.
District guardian minister Prakash Abitkar handed over the licence to Maitri chief Mayuri Alavekar Saturday. “The transgender community members were confused as to which line – men or women – they needed to stand in to get ration. Also, without a ration card, many could not get benefits. Our shop will be open to all types of individuals,” Alavekar told TOI.
Maitri has 500 transgender people as its members. Established in 2007, Maitri focuses on sex education and health within the transgender community. “Due to the orientation and gender confusion, many have left their homes. They don’t have their own permanent house. Through Maitri and district administration, we have got ration cards approved for many such individuals,” Alavekar said.
District collector Amol Yedge said the initiative is an important step towards economic independence and social inclusiveness of the community by providing them dignified employment opportunities. In Kolhapur, several progressive measures have been implemented for transgender people, including access to higher education, employment opportunities, priority in the voting process, and reserved beds at CPR Hospital for treatment.
Courtesy : TOI
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