District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Secretary and Senior Civil Judge M.V. Seshamma emphasizes that transgenders have the same rights as normal citizens and calls for the respect of their rights. She was speaking at a legal awareness programme on the rights of transgenders held at the DLSA. The event aimed to create awareness among transgenders about their rights and the various government departments that work towards upholding those rights. Ms. Seshamma urged all transgenders to obtain an identity card issued by the government, which would enable them to access essential documents such as Aadhaar card, voter card, ration card, and bank account.
The DLSA Secretary mentioned that the Transgenders Persons Protection of Rights Act has been in effect since 2019. Transgenders can seek legal advice by calling the toll-free helpline number 15100 and government assistance through the helpline number 1901. The Secretary also encouraged transgenders to participate in the ‘Jagananna ku chebudham’ programme and express their grievances.
Apart from transgenders, the programme also saw the participation of differently-abled persons and senior citizens. Officials from various government departments were also present at the event.
For more information, read the full article on The Hindu.