Transgenders' issues figure in Maha's proposed women's policy

A presentation highlighting the lack of health and education facilities for the transgender community was made to the Women and Child Welfare Minister Varsha Gaikwad, who is chairing the meetings to finalise the policy which is likely to be tabled before the International Women's Day on March 8.

According to sources in the Women and Child Welfare Department, the organisation representing the transgender community lamented that they are only asked to dance at weddings, begging or prostitution.

"They felt the need to live a life of dignity and sought government's help in this regard," officials said.

They said the organisation 'Astitva' will prepare a detailed presentation of their demands next week.

Meanwhile, sources said the new women's policy will focus on security-related issues.

"A committee headed by BJP MLC Shobha Phadanvis is looking into the aspect of amending existing laws related to crime against women and provide them more teeth for stringent action against the accused," sources added.