I’m a 19-year-old guy navigating my way through college, and today was like any other day. As I hopped on the train around noon, I noticed the usual lull in the crowd. It’s the perfect time for street vendors and individuals seeking support to make their way through the carriages. I don’t mind lending a hand or some spare change when I can, but here’s the thing – I’m still a student, barely scraping by with my trusty local train pass and not much cash on hand.
The challenge arises when someone, often a eunuch, approaches asking for money. It’s not about the request itself; it’s the discomfort that creeps in when they start getting too close. You know, that awkward space invasion that triggers my social anxiety. I’m not one for physical contact, and these encounters leave me feeling uneasy. They have their own unique way of addressing you, not necessarily offensive but definitely hard to describe.
Most times, they aren’t too persistent, but today was different. One of them got uncomfortably close, and the urge to push them away was strong. However, I knew better than to risk escalating the situation. Getting into a confrontation could lead to a serious beatdown, and that’s not something I’m eager to experience.
Let me be clear – I don’t harbor any resentment towards them. It’s just that I believe there should be more educational opportunities tailored to their needs. Not because they’re different, but to ensure they can go to school without facing unnecessary challenges and bullying. Everyone deserves a chance to learn and grow, free from judgment and discrimination.
Something similar happened to me a few years ago. I just got on a bus, even before letting me find a seat and settling down, an intersex individual came to me and said, “50 rupay de (Give me 50 rupees).” I, too, was a student at that time and had little to no money. I had to reluctantly give them a 50 rupee note, because I wasn’t mentally ready to face the consequences of refusing them.
I agree with you that everyone should get proper education, and hopefully in a few years people won’t have to deal with such things.
Also, eunuch and hermaphrodite may be considered as offensive terms by many. Intersex is a much more accurate word for them.
Also, eunuch and hermaphrodite may be considered as offensive terms by many. Intersex is a much more accurate word for them.
Under the hijra/kinner umbrella, eunuchs and transgenders are also included.
For some reason, they avoid me. Sure, they do tap on my shoulder, but I pretend to be hooked onto my phone. Making use of an earphone makes it work even better. I feel bad for them, but hey, I’m a recent bachelor’s pass-out. I don’t have any money to spare. I also don’t have a job. That money in my pocket is for the bus out there.