SORENG: The Social Welfare Department, Soreng organised an awareness programme on Transgender Issues, Social Inclusion, Rights and Welfare of Transgender Persons and the Harmful Effects of Substance Abuse to sensitise participants on legal provisions, welfare measures and social responsibilities at Rurban Complex, BAC, Soreng.
The programme commenced with the welcoming of the chief guests and other distinguished guest.
Additional Political Secretary (Soreng), Mr Eras Lepcha addressed the gathering as the chief guest and emphasised the importance of mutual respect, equality and acceptance of diversity to build an inclusive society. He stated that awareness programmes play a crucial role in changing mindsets and fostering sensitivity towards transgender persons and other marginalised communities. He encouraged students and youth to develop empathy, respect differences and contribute positively to their families and society. Highlighting the State Government’s commitment, he referred to the Chief Minister’s vision of “Sunawlo, Samriddha ani Samarth Sikkim”, underlining inclusive growth, social justice and empowerment for all. He commended the efforts of the Social Welfare Department and Rainbow Hills Welfare Association for organising the programme.
District Collector, Mr Dhiraj Subedi, in his keynote address, elaborated on the evolution of transgender rights in India. He highlighted constitutional safeguards under Articles 14, 15, 16 and 21, the right to self-identification recognised by the Supreme Court, and key provisions of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. He informed that certification of gender is issued by the District Magistrate without requiring medical examination and emphasised the readiness of the registration portal for convergence of services. He described substance addiction as a social and health issue and advocated a compassionate approach combining social support and enforcement.
Earlier Mrs Prativa Tamang welcomed the dignitaries and participants and briefed the gathering on the objectives of the programme, emphasising equality, inclusion and the importance of transgender representation. She highlighted government support extended to transgender persons and informed about the official portal for registration to avail welfare schemes. She also intimated about an upcoming skit competition under the Nasha Mukth Bharat Abhiyan and spoke on the harmful effects of substance abuse.
(Resource Person) Mr Abhinam Mangar, from Rainbow Hills Welfare Association, addressed the gathering on transgender issues in the context of social inclusion, welfare and state support. He discussed challenges such as social stigma, implementation gaps and limited access to healthcare, particularly the lack of gender-affirming care facilities in rural areas. He highlighted gaps arising from Sikkim’s predominantly paternal lineage system, especially concerns about eligibility for Certificates of Identification (COI).
Mr Mangar emphasised the importance of community organising, grassroots awareness and support networks, and the role of legal aid in helping transgender persons access rights and certification. Referring to the State Government’s outlook, he highlighted initiatives such as reservation in educational institutions and public appointments, 100% sponsorship up to graduation, and various financial allowances for transgender persons. He informed that 31 transgender persons were officially registered in Sikkim as of 2023, and noted that several districts are yet to establish Transgender Protection Cells. Sensitisation in government and private institutions, and the need to expedite the issuance of gender identity certificates.
(Resource Person) Ms Sanjay Basnett, from Rainbow Hills Welfare Association and Sikkim’s first third-gender voter, shared personal experiences and perspectives on transgender identity and inclusion. She highlighted the importance of self-identification, dignity and equal opportunities, while drawing attention to challenges arising from stigma, discrimination and lack of awareness. A short video showcasing participation of her as a transgender person across various platforms was also screened.
Speaking on substance abuse, Resource Person and Advocate (District & Sessions Court), Ms Tashi Doma Bhutia, highlighted the objectives of the Nasha Mukth Bharat Abhiyan. She stressed the harmful impact of drug abuse on individuals, families and society, and shared a rehabilitation success story to motivate the audience. She also outlined legal provisions under the NDPS Act, along with related laws including POCSO and SADA, and explained the categorisation of offences.
(Resource Person and Advocate) Mr Tanchok Subba, addressed the gathering on legal aspects of transgender rights, explaining the definition, self-identification process and inclusion as a third gender. He elaborated on provisions of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, including the application process under Section 6 (Form-1) and Section 3, and highlighted various government schemes available for welfare and empowerment.
Police Inspector, Mr Narayan Rai, addressed the rising incidence of cyber crime and highlighted the importance of awareness in preventing online offences. He sensitised participants on common cyber threats such as sextortion and online love traps, and advised responsible and cautious use of digital platforms. He informed participants that cyber crimes may be reported through the national cybercrime helpline number 1930 for assistance.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms Muskan Rai.
Also present were District Collector (Soreng) Mr Dhiraj Subedi, ADC (Development) Mr Gayas Pega, Joint Director (SWD Gangtok) Mr Pempa Norbu Sherpa, Deputy Director (SWD Gangtok) Mr Ram Tamang, (CMO) Ms Smriti Rai, Deputy Director (S&YA) Mrs Mamita Gurung, SWO (SWD) Mrs Prativa Tamang, Panchayat Presidents and members, BDOs, (Block Manager/ SRLM) Mr Arun Sharma, Asha and SHG members, Master Trainers (Soreng Senior Secondary School) and students.
- IPR Report
