They demand money because they go through a lot. However, begging should not be the way forward. Education, acceptance at home, and opportunities are what we need to focus on to help the younger generation move away from this lifestyle—Milin Dutta, Transgender activist
The cramped city bus jolts to a halt on a Guwahati street, the air heavy with tension. Amid the usual chatter of passengers, a sudden commotion breaks out. A group of individuals, dressed in vibrant sarees, moves from one end of the bus to the other, demanding money. Some commuters reluctantly hand over cash, while others, visibly uneasy, avoid eye contact. The atmosphere shifts when a heated exchange breaks out—one commuter resists, and the group responds with loud curses and unwelcome gestures.
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This scene, all too common on Guwahati’s public transport, has sparked heated debates about harassment, identity, and accountability. For many commuters, such incidents have turned their daily rides into a source of anxiety.
Daily commuters in Guwahati have raised concerns about harassment by individuals claiming to be transgender, who demand money from passengers on city buses. The issue has sparked a larger debate about the distinction between genuine members of the transgender community and imposters exploiting their identity. Transgender activists and community leaders have highlighted the deeper systemic issues at play, including the need for education, acceptance, and economic opportunities for transgender individuals.
Passengers travelling on city buses have reported multiple instances of harassment. Speaking to GPlus, Dhruba, a daily commuter, said, “It is very discomforting for us as passengers to travel in city buses where they demand money for no reason. They appear to be physically capable, so why don’t they work instead?”
Another commuter, Rahul, who regularly takes the GS Road route, said, “I once saw a group corner a young man who refused to give them money. They yelled at him, cursed him, and created such a scene that he had to step off the bus. This isn’t acceptable.”
Siddharth, another commuter talking to GPlus said, "They touch people inappropriately or curse if we don’t comply. Why should we have to deal with this every day? Where is the regulation?”
Speaking to GPlus, an official from Paltanbazar Police Station said, “There was an incident where we tried to clear the area of individuals claiming to be transgender near Paltanbazar. Instead of cooperating, they called more members of their group and created a huge commotion. It became chaotic and disrupted the public space even more. Since then, we have been hesitant to intervene or regulate their activities because it often escalates into a bigger issue.”
However, talking to GPlus, Milin Dutta, a transgender activist based in Guwahati, acknowledged the challenges faced by the community but distanced the larger transgender movement from such actions. “We usually don’t work with that kind,” Dutta explained.
Dutta elaborated on the socio-economic conditions that might drive some to such behaviour, adding, “They demand money because they go through a lot. However, begging should not be the way forward. Education, acceptance at home, and opportunities are what we need to focus on to help the younger generation move away from this lifestyle.”
Milin also shed light on the “gharana system,” a traditional structure within the transgender community where individuals often seek refuge under a “guru.” She said, “Many young individuals get into the gharana system seeking shelter and protection. Over time, they become part of a system where inequality and abuse of power can occur.”
Speaking to GPlus, Neetu, a transgender guru, raised concerns about imposters exploiting the transgender identity. “There are nearly 200 genuine kinnars in the city, but over 4,000-5,000 fake ones. These individuals are involved in criminal activities like chain-snatching, and their behaviour tarnishes the image of the real transgender community.”
Neetu also highlighted the divisions within the community, noting, “We have three parties of transgenders in Guwahati. Apart from me, there are two others, Julee and Nisha.” She further emphasised the long-standing struggles faced by the community, including social discrimination, abuse, and violence.
Milin Dutta stressed the importance of creating opportunities for transgender individuals, starting with acceptance within families. “The main thing is acceptance at home. Once that is achieved, transgender children can pursue education without fear of bullying. This will help them secure employment and reduce reliance on begging,” she said.
Neetu added,“The community has been fighting for its rights for years. Employment opportunities and reservations for transgender individuals in education and jobs are crucial for their integration into mainstream society.”
Dispur College announced in 2023 its decision to reserve seats for transgender students in undergraduate courses. Such initiatives aim to provide better educational opportunities for transgender youth and reduce dependence on begging or other exploitative systems.
The recurring incidents on Guwahati’s city buses are more than just commuter complaints—they highlight the challenges faced by both passengers and genuine transgender individuals. The misuse of identity by imposters has not only created discomfort for the public but has also hampered the progress of a marginalised community striving for dignity and equality.
