the trans community to function outside formal sectors, which in turn makes them more vulnerable to a lack of social security.

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A 2013 study on the migration of transgender people from rural areas to the capital Srinagar revealed that the nature of the harassment faced by the community included verbal abuse, assault, bullying and sexual violence as well as social restrictions that resulted in immense psychological disturbances. The community is often forced to migrate from their places of origin and are forced to stop attending social institutions such as schools and places of worship.

The study noted that the intimidating environment at educational institutions almost certainly forces them to leave their studies to avoid the mocking and harassment that leads to trauma. “The mental health issues include post traumaticmeanzimyoar [matchmakers] or as performers at marriage ceremonies. Owing to this function in a society where traditional marriage customs are still taken very seriously, there has been a palpable change in the attitude of people towards the trans community. Abdul Rashid, popularly known as Reshma, has become a household name in the valley because of this. A resident of old Srinagar city, Reshma has attained celebrity status thanks to her unique singing and dancing style along with her perfect comic timing.

But Reshma and the handful of others like her are the exception. Many members of her community still struggle for rights and acknowledgement. The position of trans people in Kashmir, however, is still better than those living in other parts of South Asia, who face tremendous physical violence.

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