Home is where dignity is.

Nine third-gender individuals in Cooch Behar have built a two-storey house to provide shelter and support to members of their community.

The work has been done under the banner of “Jibon Gari Feriwala”, a social organisation formed by them.

Pinki Barman, the driving force behind the NGO, said they often face discrimination in society but this home will be for every third-gender person who needs it.

“We are often denied rented accommodation and people are not even willing to sell us land. This home is our answer to those barriers. It is a place where we can finally feel safe and respected,” said Pinki.

Another member of the group said that along with members of the third-gender community, they were also ready to accommodate the destitute of any gender.

“We also welcome elderly citizens and orphaned children to our shelter home. We have finished the work up to the first floor and the foundation of the second floor has been made. It is a spacious structure and we intend to increase the capacity to accommodate more people,” said the member.

Pinki said that six large halls in the building could accommodate up to 250 people. Named Jibon Gari Feriwala Anath Bhakta Sevashram, the home is located in Bairagirhat, around 20km from Cooch Behar town.

As of now, 40 persons from the third-gender community are staying in the house, along with 21 senior citizens (13 women and eight men).

“Once we finish the second floor, there will be space for 500 people. The residents here are not just getting shelter but also companionship and dignity in a society that often alienates them. Here, they can live without fear or judgment,” she added.

A member of the NGO said that the challenges leading to this achievement were numerous.

Under the banner of the NGO, they raised funds through small donations, organised community events, and received support from like-minded individuals.

“Social stigma, financial constraints and the lack of governmental support made our journey difficult. Yet, our team’s unwavering determination paved the way,” said the member.

Amit Sarkar, the president of Darjeeling District Legal Aid Forum —a voluntary organisation — said the home is also a symbol of empowerment.

“For the first time, a specific home has been made for the third-gender community. While their journey remains challenging, the home stands as a ray of hope for third-gender individuals not only in Cooch Behar but across north Bengal,” said Sarkar.