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Just Earth News | @justearthnews | 19 Jul 2018
Patna: In an attempt to thwart the growing menace of molestation and rape of women at short stay homes, the Chief Minister of India's Bihar state, Nitish Kumar, has asked his administration to look into the possibility of recruiting transgender security guards in place of men.
The idea was conceived by Social Welfare Department Principal Secretary Atul Prasad on Monday.
Kumar, who liked the proposal, directed the concerned department to look into the matter.
He also held a discussion with Reshma Prasad, a member of the Transgender Welfare Board.
Kumar (C) attending an event in Bihar. Image: twitter.com/NitishKumar
Prasad was quoted by local ANI news agency as saying: "During the meeting, I tried to bring the issues faced by the transgender community in front of the Chief Minister. We do not have any means of employment. It's important for the government to help us."
"The government should give us two percent reservation.
"In the meeting, Principal Secretary raised the issue how transgender can be employed as guards. I think whatever work will be given to us, we will do it nicely. It's a great initiative for us to prove our strength," Prasad added.
Incidents of sexual assaults have been plaguing Bihar for a long time.
In June, at least 11 people, including the owner of an NGO, were arrested from Muzaffarpur by the state police for physically abusing a few girls, who were residing at a short stay home for women.