Frustrated over the lack of government assistance in identification of alternative sources of livelihood, a group of educated transgenders recently appealed to the government for mercy killing.

The group visited the Chennai Collectorate and also sent petitions to other government departments.

Financial assistance

“I tried to get financial assistance from the government to lead my life with dignity. I do not want to beg or carry on with the other tasks traditionally associated with transwomen in society. I have never thought of doing such work for a living,” said Banu, a transgender who is studying engineering.

“I am denied part-time jobs because I am transwoman. I am unable to pay for my education and I face discrimination. Officials are unwilling to take initiatives to offer us alternative sources of livelihood,” said Banu.

“We have requested the government to allow mercy killing for us. As a citizen of India, my dignity and self-respect have been affected because of my gender identity,” Banu said.

Living Smile Vidya, another transgender, said discrimination faced as a theatre artiste has affected her livelihood.

No life of dignity

“I don’t earn enough to make ends meet,” said Vidya, a postgraduate from Tanjavur Tamil University. Angel Glady, another transgender, said they requested mercy killing because of the challenges involved ensuring a life with dignity. Angel Glady is a postgraduate from Madras University.

Transgenders demanded mercy killing due to lack of government aid to help them live with dignity