Socio-economic Exclusion and the Quality of Life of the Transgender in India

This article examines the multi-dimensional ostracism experienced by transgenders in India and its impact on their health, psychological well-being and quality of life. Using a mixed-methods approach and both secondary and primary data, this study reveals that the process of deprivation among transgender begins in their families with the recognition of their unique gender identity and prevails throughout their lives. Rejection from family and inherited property rights, lack of education and quality job opportunities and existing social stigma together compel transgender to accept either sex work or begging as their means of survival. Though it is found that the incidence of income poverty among transgender is low, they are highly vulnerable to any economic shocks (like the COVID-19 pandemic). The prevalence of chronic diseases is also severe among them. Furthermore, it is noted that due to their disrupted living patterns and experiences of sexual harassment and assault, their psychological health is alarmingly poor. Hence, it is argued that a comprehensive rights-based policy that involves affirmative action, along with the rights to education, employment, parental land and property, is necessary to improve transgenders’ quality of life.