Dr. Naziya Pathan, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, New Law College, Pune
ABSTRACT
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the transgender community and physically disabled community in India. Both these communities were already marginalized and faced various challenges before the pandemic, but the situation has worsened during the pandemic.
For the transgender community, the pandemic has led to increased discrimination and stigma, loss of livelihoods, lack of access to healthcare, and mental health issues. The lockdown and social distancing measures have made it difficult for transgender persons to access basic necessities and healthcare services. Many of them have lost their jobs or sources of income due to the pandemic, and there have been reports of them facing difficulties in accessing government relief measures.
Similarly, the physically disabled community has also faced several challenges during the pandemic, such as lack of access to healthcare, lack of transportation, and loss of livelihoods. The lockdown and social distancing measures have made it difficult for them to access essential services and get around. Many of them have also faced difficulties in accessing assistive devices and accommodations.
Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought attention to the difficulties and obstacles that the physically challenged and transgender communities in India already experience, further marginalizing them. To meet their needs and concerns both during and after the epidemic, there is a need for increased knowledge, sensitivity, and assistance from the government and society. This article will examine the effects of COVID-19 on the disabled population from a legal standpoint, covering issues such as access to healthcare, education, and employment, discrimination, and disability rights. This article elaborates on the difficulties faced, existing laws and provisions and the suggestions which will lead to the betterment of these communities.
Keywords: Transgender, Disabled community, COVID-19, Pandemic
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