Transgenders over 40 to get Rs 400 pension in Karnataka

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Transgenders over 40 to get Rs 400 pension in Karnataka

TNN, Aug 12, 2010,

BANGALORE: In a benevolent gesture to transgenders, CM B S Yeddyurappa on

Wednesday announced a monthly social security benefit of Rs 400 to transgenders

above 40 years.

The CM's initiative followed his meeting with a delegation of transgenders who

called on him here to submit a memorandum. They wanted houses, monthly pension

and reservation of seats in degree courses. The pension is similar to the one

being given to devdasis.

The CM also announced that transgenders will now come under the purview of the

social welfare department. " Our 12-year struggle has finally paid off. We

welcome the CM's statement. It's a great feeling that transgenders will finally

have a separate welfare board under the social welfare department. Karnataka is

the second state in India after Tamil Nadu that's bringing a change for

transgenders. We only hope it's implemented in full, " Akkai Padmashali, Sangama

co-ordinator (information division), said.

There is no comprehensive data on the population of transgenders in Karnataka.

According to a 2006 survey by the Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society and

the Karnataka Health Promotion Trust, there are approximately 2,000-2,500

transgenders in Bangalore, and at least 60% are above 40 years.

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