Exploring the Quality of Life of Transgenders in Kashmir: A Review

Abstract

This review paper analyses the quality of life (QoL) of transgender individuals in Kashmir from 2015 to 2023, highlighting the severe challenges they face within the region. Despite being part of Kashmiri culture, transgender individuals suffer from significant social stigma, discrimination, economic marginalization, and inadequate healthcare and legal protections. The review synthesizes research from Google Scholar and Web of Science, focusing on factors like social acceptance, health, economic conditions, and legal issues. Findings reveal that transgender individuals in Kashmir experience a much lower QoL compared to their cisgender counterparts, largely due to systemic discrimination and social exclusion. High levels of mental health issues, economic hardship, and inadequate legal protections are prevalent. The review also notes a lack of region-specific studies using standardized QoL assessment tools, underscoring the need for more targeted research. The paper calls for urgent policy interventions, legal reforms, and improved healthcare and socio-economic support to enhance the QoL of the transgender community in Kashmir.