On 2082/03/05 (Nepali Date), Maya Ko Sansar successfully organized a Legal Awareness and Community Empowerment Program in Birgunj, focusing on Justice, Equality, and Fundamental Rights for the Transgender Community.
This program saw active participation from various groups within the transgender community, including those engaged in badhai maagne (blessing-seeking), satta nachne (traditional dancing), and transgender sex workers.
Representatives from several government bodies were invited, including:
District Administration Office, Parsa
Social Development Department of Birgunj Metropolitan City
District Police Office, Parsa
Ward Police Office of Ward No. 16 and Ward No. 4
The primary focus of this program was the transgender sex worker community. Community members courageously shared personal stories of violence, abuse, and humiliation. In particular, transgender women involved in satta nachne and badhai maagne described the physical assault, public shaming, and sexual violence they frequently endure from both the public and law enforcement.
A very important issue raised during the event was the role of the “Guru Aama”—the leader of the blessing-seeking and traditional dancing community groups. A key question was: Who is responsible for the protection and safety of the members under Guru Aama’s leadership? It was strongly emphasized that Guru Aamas must take responsibility not only for the financial aspects of their groups but also for ensuring a safe and dignified life for all their members, protecting them from all forms of violence.
During the program, the participants were made aware of the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of Nepal (2072) for the transgender sex worker community, including their right to dignity, equality, and protection from violence and discrimination.
In the panel discussion with the police administration, the transgender community members expressed frustration over how they are treated when calling the emergency number 100. Instead of support, they are often scolded, verbally abused, and ignored by police officers. Their problems and pain are dismissed without any serious response.
Additionally, a major concern was raised about the lack of a National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) branch in Birgunj, despite it being a major metropolitan city. This absence shows how under-resourced and unaware the Terai region remains when it comes to human rights. Establishing an NHRC presence in the area could play a vital role in protecting and empowering the LGBTIQA+ and transgender communities.
Furthermore, transgender individuals have faced blatant discrimination when approaching the police to file a complaint. If a transgender person visits the police station to report an issue, their complaint is often refused or not taken seriously. In response to this injustice, Maya Ko Sansar strongly coordinated with the police administration to ensure that issues affecting the community are acknowledged, recorded, and followed up on appropriately.
This program marks an important step in shedding light on the deep-rooted problems faced by the transgender community in Birgunj. Maya Ko Sansar remains fully committed to advocating for the rights, dignity, and safety of transgender sex workers, and to holding authorities accountable in delivering justice and equal treatment for all.