Sensitization programme held
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 14 2013:
A one day sensitization programme for legal service providers on HIV sensitive socio-legal protection was held at conference hall of Cheirap Court complex, Uripok today under the joint initiative of Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MASLSA) and SAATHI (NGO).
With the programme focused on issues related to HIV/AIDS and rights of trans-genders, District and Sessions Judge (Manipur East) M Manojkumar Singh said tackling the menace of HIV/AIDS entails contribution of every section of the society.
Describing trans-genders as god's gift and calling upon transgenders to live without any inhibition, he opined that socio-economic status of transgenders in Manipur are relatively better-off compared to their counterparts in other parts of the country.
Conveying that free legal services could be availed by the trans-gender community as free legal service units are operational in Kakching and Thoubal, Manojkumar said more such units would be opened in other districts at the earliest.
Commenting on the issue, District and Sessions Judge (Manipur West) S Imocha Singh said with trans-gender becoming an issue that needs serious deliberation the only means to bring them at par with others is for the citizens to acknowledge their existence as an important member of the society and contribute in every way possible so that transgenders too chip in the overall progress of the society.
Inspite of the legal experts trying to drive home the point that manipuri society do not discriminate transgenders, Shanta Khurai, a member of All Manipur Nupi Manbi Association, highlighted that Government job notification implying that either male or female may apply for a particular service testifies that transgenders continue to face certain barriers.
Pointing out that many transgenders possess skills and qualifications to vie for the best jobs, Shanta suggested that minimal possible percentage of job reservation be provided for transgenders.
While stating that many transgenders are highly skilled beauticians, Shanta also contended that transgenders often endure abuse and violence.
As resource persons, SAATHI's associate director (Programmes) Paramita Banerjee elaborated on 'HIV, Gender and Social Protection' while MASLSA member secretary A Guneshwar Sharma spoke on 'Free legal aid and related facilities under MASLSA - experience sharing' .