The LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community is slowly and steadily coming into the mainstream in the country.
In the past, we have heard about several incidents where transgenders have been accommodation because of their sexuality. In order to eliminate such discrimination against transgenders, Bihar has now become the first state in the country where one cannot deny transgender persons their right to rent or buy a house.
Confirming the development, Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi said those who deny accommodation to members of the transgender community on the basis of their gender may have to face a jail term of up to 6 years.
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He made the announcement at Kinnar Mahotsava in Patna and was quoted to as saying by The Hindu.
"The newly formed Bihar Rajya Kinnar Kalyan Board (Bihar State Transgender Welfare Board) will also look into facilities being provided to the members of this community in other States...so that they too could be given to them here in Bihar," Modi added.
Last week, Patna also saw thousands of people participating in a pride parade demanding rights, equal opportunities and dignity.
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The participants also carried a 500-metre-long rainbow flag as a part of the 'Bihar Pride Parade'.
In addition to this, Bihar government also decided to provide financial assistance to members of the transgender community who want to opt for a sex change operation. "If a transperson wants to undergo a sex-change operation, then the Bihar government would give Rs 1.5 lakh,"? Modi had announced.