Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on LGBT studies
Year: 2024
DOI:
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How to Tackle Job discrimination for Hijras in India?
Aiyesha Kaur Swarnn
ABSTRACT:
Hijras are one of the most marginalised groups in Indian society. They are often treated with respect and fear due to cultural authority, as well as revulsion due to conservative Indian views. Yet, hijras have played essential roles in India’s dominant Hindu civilisation for over 4,000 years. Their existence has been cherished in Hindu holy writings such as the Ramayana, demonstrating their significance in Indian society. However, due to the ongoing discrimination and exclusion of hijras, they are predominately forced to engage in begging and prostitution as a means of survival. Their rights and protections, as a result, are virtually non-existent, which continues the cycle of poverty. As such, this paper investigates the gender inequality surrounding the ability of hijras to access jobs, and it will do so through an extensive literature review of previous Indian government policies, laws and strategies before concluding with three proposals to help solve this issue. The recognition of hijras must be taken to the next level, where India’s government is the leading pioneer contributing to the international dialogue of gender-based rights.
keywords: gender inequality; hijra; India; job discrimination; third gender