Being a hermaphrodite(HIJRA): Conditions status any psychological impact of social exclusion on the HIJRAS of the Lahore
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Date
2012
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University of Management and Technology
Abstract
The word ‘Hermaphrodite’ is commonly defined as the state of being neither male nor female. They are usually called ‘hijras’ or ‘khusras’ in our society. From the guardians of the royal courts, their positions have deteriorated to being considered as ‘socially outcast’, ‘unwanted people’, subjected to mockery, ridicule and derogatory remarks. This research work describes the current living conditions, status and concept of social exclusion of hijra focusing on the pathway between exclusion and solutions for betterment. As a qualitative study, 3 in-depth focus group discussions were held with general public of Lahore, hijras of Lahore, Government Official, Psychologist and Social Worker along with extensive observations. The participants were selected by convenience sampling. The findings revealed that hijras are located at the extreme margin of exclusion having no sociopolitical space where a hijra can lead life of a human being with dignity. Their deprivations are grounded in non-recognition as a separate gendered human being beyond the male-female dichotomy. Being outside this norm has prevented them from positioning themselves in greater society with human potential and security. Extreme social exclusion diminishes self-esteem and sense of social responsibility. Hijras need to be recognized as having a space on society’s gender continuum. Hijras, as the citizens of Lahore, Pakistan and part of society’s diversity, have gender, sexual and citizenship rights, that need to be protected. The government, instead of ignoring the increasing number of hermaphrodites should more actively approach them and develop public awareness programs to handle the issue.
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Keywords
BS Thesis, Socially Outcast, HIJRAS Living Conditions, Hijras in Pakistan