Toll collection by Hijras

GENERAL people are terrified these days by a large number of hermaphrodites (popularly known as Hijras). They are involved in extorting tolls from people at markets, restaurants, buses, trains and motor launches. Even the small traders on footpaths are not exempted. The strategies and techniques adopted by these people in collecting tolls defy our imagination at times. People are astonished to see the modes of their toll collection. The Hijras force innocent people to pay a considerable sum of money and create embarrassing situation for them if they do not comply with their call to pay. Concerned about self respect, people are often compelled to pay only to avoid backlash. One of the main reasons why Hijras are doing so is lack of employment opportunity for them. The number of transgender people is very small compared to the gross population of the country. It should not be difficult for any government to rehabilitate this community. The Social Service Directorate can be given the responsibility to provide the Hijra community members with education and training. In this way, the Hijras can get the honour they deserve as citizens of this country. We sincerely hope that the government takes appropriate steps in this regard.

Dr. Md. Ruhul Amin

Senior Asstt. Vice President

Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd.

Beanibazar Branch, Sylhet.

[email protected]