Government will develop transgender policy
A working committee has been set up by the Meghalaya government to develop a transgender policy for the state, an official said. At the end of the two-day review meeting, the Directorate of Social Welfare presented the report regarding the implementation of various departmental programs. Additionally, it said that the process of opening government accounts for transgender persons is being done by the Directorate of Social Welfare.
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According to the 2011 census, there are 627 transgender people in Meghalaya. According to the report, state and district transgender justice boards and grievance officers have been appointed by the state to handle complaints. It further added: “It has also set up standing committees in all districts to expeditiously look into complaints of any police misconduct against transgender people.”
The Meghalaya Births and Deaths Registration Rules, 1999 were amended by the state cabinet on January 23, 2018, to allow inclusion of transgender or third gender option in place of the gender column on the birth or death certificate. Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh said: “Perhaps the stigmatization of transgender people is the reason why there are only two or three entries in the voting records. We must first eliminate the stigma to prevent this vulnerable group from feeling social and public Awareness has to be increased.” There is stigma before they come forward and self-disclose.” Meanwhile, social welfare director CD Lingava said the department will collaborate with an external organization to collect data on transgender persons.
