Hijra community urges CEC to stop harassment in NID services

Members of the Hijra community today demanded an end to the harassment they face while correcting information on their NID cards.

Leaders of Shustha Jibon -- an organisation of the Hijra community -- who were holding a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal, also said they want three reserved seats for their community in parliament.

Parbati Ahmed, chairperson of Shustha Jibon, said many of them have NID cards with a male identity.

"If members of the community show the card anywhere, the authorities do not accept it as we look different. We have been a victim of discrimination," said Parbati.

They become embarrassed when they go for medical tests to prove their gender identity, resulting in mental trauma, added Parbati.

"The CEC and others assured us that they would work on a new policy so that we do not have to face harassment getting NID cards and correcting them," she added.