How the rise of HIV in India resulted in government protections for gay groups, transgender people, and sex workers This original ethnographic research explores the relationship between the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the rights-based struggles of sexual minorities in contemporary India. Sex workers, gay men, and transgender people became visible in the Indian public sphere in the mid-1980s when the rise of HIV/AIDS became a frightening issue. The Indian state started to fold these groups into national HIV/AIDS policies as “high-risk” groups in an attempt to create an effective response to the epidemic. Lakkimsetti argues that over time the crisis of HIV/AIDS effectively transformed the relationship between sexual minorities and the state from one that was focused on juridical exclusion to one of inclusion. The new relationship then enabled affected groups to demand rights and citizenship from the Indian state that had been previously unimaginable. By illuminating such tactics as mobilizing against a colonial era anti-sodomy law, petitioning the courts for the recognition of gender identity, and stalling attempts to criminalize sexual labor, this book uniquely brings together the struggles of sex workers, transgender people, and gay groups previously studied separately. A closely observed look at the machinations behind recent victories for sexual minorities, this book is essential reading across several fields.

"The present guide offers information related to norms and mechanisms developed to protect the rights of persons belonging to national, ethnic, religious or linguistic minorities. It includes detailed information about procedures and forums in which minority issues may be raised to minorities and by also covering selected specialized agencies and regional mechanisms, the present Guide complements information contained in Working with the United Nations Human Rights Programme: A Handbook for Civil Society"--Introduction.

Women and the Law.

This book is a compelling examination of the theoretical discourse on rights and its relationship with ideas, institutions and practices in the Indian context. By engaging with the crucial categories of class, caste, gender, region and religion, it draws attention to the contradictions and contestations in the arena of rights and entitlements. The essays by eminent experts provide deep and nuanced insights on the intersecting issues and concerns of individual and group identities as well as their connection with the State along with its multifarious institutions and practices. The volume not only engages with the dilemmas emerging out of the rights discourse, but also sets out to recognize the significance of a shared commitment to a rights-based framework towards the promotion of justice and democracy in society. The book will be useful to academics, social scientists, researchers and policymakers. It will be of special interest to teachers and students in the fields of politics, development studies, philosophy, ethics, sociology, gender/women’s studies and social movements.

India of My Dreams by M.K. Gandhi: "India of My Dreams" presents the visionary perspective of Mahatma Gandhi on the future of India. The book outlines Gandhi's aspirations for the nation and his commitment to nonviolence and social justice. Key Aspects of the Book "India of My Dreams": Gandhian Ideals: The book highlights Mahatma Gandhi's core principles, including nonviolence, self-reliance, and communal harmony. Nation-Building: "India of My Dreams" reflects Gandhi's vision for India's social, economic, and political progress. Social Justice: The work emphasizes Gandhi's advocacy for equality, inclusion, and the welfare of marginalized communities. M.K. Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi, was an iconic leader and freedom fighter in India's struggle for independence. "India of My Dreams" reflects Gandhi's profound love for his country and his dedication to creating a just and inclusive society.