Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Oct 10: Deputy commissioner (DC) Darshan H V has directed officials and police to take necessary measures to prevent transgender persons from gathering along national highways during late hours and curb illegal activities.

Presiding over a district-level coordination and monitoring committee meeting for sexual minorities at the DC office, he noted that several complaints have been received regarding transgender persons standing along national highways at night and harassing motorists. He directed officials to initially raise awareness and advise them against standing on highways. He further instructed the police to initiate strict legal action if the problem persists.

Representatives of transgender organisations present at the meeting pointed out that individuals arriving from neighbouring states are engaging in unlawful activities in Mangaluru, urging authorities to take firm action against them.

Officials informed the meeting that a list of 15 homeless transgender individuals has been submitted to the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) to facilitate the allotment of residential sites. In addition, measures have been initiated through the Women Development Corporation to provide financial incentives to promote self-employment within the community.

According to a recent survey, 96 transgender persons are registered in Dakshina Kannada district. Officials stated that eligible individuals have been given the opportunity to apply through the Seva Sindhu portal to avail rehabilitation benefits and government welfare schemes.

ZP CEO Narwade Vinayak Karbari; Shridhar, deputy director of the Women and Child Development Department; representatives of transgender organisations; and officials from various departments were present.