Gender sensitivity has never been the strong suit of politicians in India, typified by the many foot-in-mouth moments netas have experienced in recent times while advancing remedial measures to take on crimes against women. The Maharashtra government though is trying to make amends with plans to launch a massive sensitisation programme for doctors, police, teachers and other departments, and a formal recommendation for a separate board for the welfare of transgender people will soon be made to chief minister Prithviraj Chavan.

Winds of change: Participants flaunt their vibrant costumes during the LGBT parade held at August Kranti Maidan last month. File Pic