Arvind Kejriwal Declares Free Bus Travel in Delhi for Transgender Community
Arvind Kejriwal Unveils Free Bus Travel Initiative for Delhi’s Transgender Community
In a significant move towards inclusivity and equality, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced that his government will provide free travel on DTC and cluster buses to members of the transgender community. Kejriwal emphasized the importance of acknowledging and supporting marginalized groups, stating that they deserve equal rights and opportunities in society.
The proposal, soon to undergo Cabinet approval, reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of the transgender community promptly. Kejriwal expressed his hope that the initiative would greatly benefit transgender individuals, highlighting their often overlooked status in society.
In a tweet accompanying a video of the announcement, Arvind Kejriwal reiterated the government’s commitment to social inclusion, stating, “The transgender community is largely neglected in our social environment. This should not happen, they are also human beings and they also have equal rights.” He emphasized the decision to provide free bus travel for the transgender community as a step towards rectifying this oversight.
Arvind Kejriwal also addressed the historical neglect faced by the transgender community, noting that for over 75 years, no substantial measures had been taken by any government to address their needs and concerns.
The initiative builds upon the existing provision of free bus travel for women in the national capital, which was introduced in October 2019. The extension of this benefit to the transgender community reflects the government’s commitment to advancing gender equality and social justice.
A senior official from the Delhi transport department highlighted the practical steps being taken to implement the scheme. The social welfare department possesses data on individuals identified as belonging to the third gender in Delhi, which will be instrumental in ensuring the effective rollout of the initiative. Eligibility for the free bus travel scheme will require individuals to provide certificates issued by the revenue department.
The announcement comes in response to a directive from the Delhi High Court, which last year instructed the city government to recognize the transgender community as the third gender in bus tickets issued by the DTC. The court’s order stemmed from a PIL filed by a transgender individual, highlighting the lack of recognition and support for the community in public services.
The Delhi government’s commitment to the welfare of the transgender community extends beyond free bus travel. Various measures have been sanctioned by the women and child development department, including the introduction of a “third gender” category in job application forms and the establishment of monitoring cells to address issues of abuse and discrimination.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain, including the underrepresentation of transgender individuals in official records and electoral rolls. The Census of 2011 recorded a population of 4,213 transgender individuals in Delhi, with only a fraction enrolled as voters, highlighting the need for greater recognition and inclusion in civic life.
In conclusion, the announcement of free bus travel for the transgender community represents a significant step towards fostering inclusivity and addressing the needs of marginalized groups in Delhi. It underscores the government’s commitment to promoting equality and social justice, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges and barriers faced by the transgender community in accessing basic services and recognition in society.
As the Delhi government moves forward with its initiatives to support the transgender community, there is a pressing need for broader societal recognition and acceptance. Beyond policy measures, concerted efforts are required to challenge stigma and discrimination against transgender individuals and create a more inclusive society.
Education and awareness-raising campaigns can play a vital role in promoting understanding and empathy towards the transgender community. By fostering dialogue and challenging stereotypes, society can work towards creating a more welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of gender identity.
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