Exploring Exclusion: Understanding Marginalisation in the Third Gender Community of Haryana
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12724/ajss.74.2Keywords:
exclusion, marginalisation, third gender, stigma, discriminationAbstract
To understand the marginalisation of the Third Gender community, examining the ongoing exclusion despite getting legal recognition and constitutional rights in India in 2014 is essential. They are still confronted with deep-seated expressions of stigma and discrimination. This paper aimed to investigate these challenges experienced by the Third Gender community of Haryana. A Mixed-method approach was employed in the study, combining focus group discussions with 20 respondents and a survey of 105 respondents. The analyses revealed the depth of exclusion, which was shaped by interpersonal rejection and institutional barriers. Findings supported the implementation of awareness programmes for mainstream people alongside welfare schemes or interventions for the Third Gender community to reduce misconceptions and biases towards them. This paper advocates for social acceptance of the Third Gender community, which is crucial for inclusion; without it, these interventions will not achieve their intended goals.
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