Dinajpur — March 21, 2017:

Bangladesh’s first government-backed rehabilitation village for hijra (transgender) people—“Manabpalli” in Dinajpur—has enabled dozens to move from street marginalization to stable housing and livelihoods, according to residents and local officials. Built on government land near the city, the settlement integrates hijra residents with non-hijra neighbors, a model officials describe as a national first.

Set up in 2011 on roughly 5.6 acres in the Bangibecha area, the center provides 80 individual houses registered in each resident’s name to prevent future eviction, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer said. Community management is handled by Sathi Hijra Unnayan Sangha.

Residents report a shift from begging and insecurity to self-reliance. One young resident recounted fleeing home as a child after family abuse, later finding safety and dignity in Manabpalli. Others recalled school-age humiliation but say the settlement and local acceptance have grown over time.

Economic activities now include fish cultivation in allotted ponds and cattle rearing—expanding from 23 cows in 2011 to around 50—alongside goats and poultry. A nearby shopkeeper said initial community opposition has given way to respect as residents contribute peacefully to neighborhood life. 

Civil society groups working with gender-diverse people welcomed the initiative and urged broader replication, noting that housing plus access to decent work are key for inclusion. Local officials added that special funds have supported livelihoods and public services at the site.

Source:

• “দিনাজপুরের ‘মানবপল্লী’ বদলে দিচ্ছে হিজড়াদের জীবন” — BenarNews (March 21, 2017). Benar News