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The 2019 Transgender Persons (Protection and Rights) Bill has trans people up in arms. It was initially conceived of as an Act that would empower the community and ensure their welfare. The Bill, however, triggered widespread protests and once again turned the lens on a 2014 Supreme Court judgment that gave trans people political citizenship.
It was post this judgment that Kamla Bashir, a leader of the kinnar community, could emerge as an independent candidate against Narendra Modi and Arvind Kejriwal in Varanasi in the summer of 2014. The close-knit kinnars sing and dance to make a living. Bashir’s candidacy gave the community hope, and the belief that they could be a part of an inclusive society. She canvassed valiantly, and spoke up on behalf of the community, which had been marginalised from time immemorial.
The kinnar community is now worried about what the new law has in store for them. The Bill, ratified by the President earlier this month, states that trans people have to register with the government if they want to be officially recognised as transgender and need to submit proof of gender confirmation surgery to the government. The community fears that these clauses will help the State machinery exploit them further by making them vulnerable at the hands of government officers. Many believe that the new law goes against trans people’s right to dignity and disregards their personal autonomy.
Paromita Chatterjee is a Kolkata-based freelance photographer
Muse and more: The dholak, seen here hanging from the pillar, is worshipped before the members set out to perform every day
Head held high: Bashir is held in high regard by the kinnar community for her resilience and spirit
An early start: Two members of the kinnar community set out for the day’s work in Varanasi
Taking a break: The followers of Kamla Bashir rest under a tree in the middle of the 2014 election campaign for their guru
Pause effect: Bashir, in a contemplative mood inside her house on the outskirts of Varanasi
A spot under the sun: Bashir contested twice — unsuccessfully — in state elections
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