The movement is far from over.., says Ranjita Sinha as Kolkata marks 18th National Transgender Day with calls for real action

ANI April 16, 2025 283 views

The 18th National Transgender Day in Kolkata unveiled stark realities facing transgender individuals despite legal recognition. Prominent activists like Ranjita Sinha powerfully articulated the continued struggle for fundamental rights and dignity. Celebrities Moon Moon Sen and Rudranil Ghosh amplified the community's voice, criticizing governmental inaction. The event underscored that legal acknowledgment alone cannot dismantle deeply entrenched societal discrimination.

"The movement is far from over--it continues because this is a fight for our rights." - Ranjita Sinha, ATHB Activist
Kolkata, April 16: Kolkata witnessed a powerful observance of the 18th National Transgender Day on April 15, 2025, hosted by Gokhale Road Bandhan and the Association of Transgender/Hijra in Bengal (ATHB).

Key Points

1

Supreme Court recognition hasn't translated to meaningful societal changes

2

Transgender community faces persistent barriers in education and employment

3

Activists demand concrete government action beyond symbolic gestures

The event, marked by celebration and activism, was attended by actors Moon Moon Sen, Rudranil Ghosh, social activists, police officials from the Government of West Bengal, and representatives from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

The gathering also served as a platform to address the systemic issues still affecting the transgender community, particularly in West Bengal.

ATHB member and transgender activist Ranjita Sinha emphasised that despite the 2014 Supreme Court ruling that recognised transgender individuals as the 'third gender, ' fundamental rights remain largely unfulfilled.

"West Bengal is still far behind in the transgender movement. The Supreme Court gave us recognition in 2014, but even before that, we celebrated Transgender Day knowing we are part of this society," Sinha said, adding, "The board created by the state is only for display--nothing concrete has been done in areas like health, education, and employment."

Highlighting the ongoing struggle, Sinha added, "There are many educated transgender youth, yet they are forced to live on the streets. The Central Government's Garima Griha has done some work, but it is not enough. The movement is far from over--it continues because this is a fight for our rights."

Actor Rudranil Ghosh echoed similar sentiments, criticising the failure of elected governments to uphold constitutional promises.

"Why do we need to go to court for basic rights? When we elect governments, it is their duty to deliver. It has been 18 years, yet the transgender community still waits," he said, urging judicial intervention for faster redressal.

Veteran actor Moon Moon Sen lent her voice in support of the community, lauding the 2014 Supreme Court judgment in the NALSA case.

"The judgement was everything we expect from the Supreme Court. It delivered justice when democracy did not. I am delighted for them. Our judiciary has stood tall," she said.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
So proud to see Kolkata standing up for transgender rights! 🌈 Ranjita Sinha is absolutely right - recognition is just the first step. We need real policy changes and social acceptance.
A
Amit R.
While I support the cause, I wish the article had included more specifics about what policies activists are demanding. Concrete examples would help readers understand how to push for change.
S
Sanjay M.
It's heartbreaking that after 18 years, basic rights are still being denied. Kudos to Moon Moon Sen and others for using their platform to amplify these voices. More celebrities should follow suit!
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Neha P.
As a Kolkata resident, I'm ashamed of how little has changed. The government needs to stop with token gestures and actually implement the SC ruling properly. Education and job opportunities should be priority #1.
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Rahul D.
Respectful criticism: The article focuses heavily on problems but could highlight more success stories too. There must be some progress worth celebrating in 18 years? Balance is important for morale.
T
Tanya S.
"The movement is far from over" hits hard. We need to keep the momentum going beyond just one day of awareness. How can regular citizens support beyond social media posts? 🤔

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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Tags:
Transgender Rights Ranjita Sinha Kolkata ATHB Supreme Court Social Justice
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