Ananova:

A politician has insisted the four million eunuchs in Bangladesh must be given voting rights and access to education.

"I don't understand why eunuchs should not enjoy social and human rights," said Mohammad Shahjahan, an MP from the ruling Awami League party.

They are barred from voting because their sex cannot be determined and many do not go to school because they fear being teased or ostracised.

Most of the eunuchs, known as Hijras in the predominantly Muslim country, are transsexuals and hermaphrodites who wanted to become women.

Hijras traditionally were entertainers who performed songs and dances at social gatherings.

Shahjahan urged the authorities to treat eunuchs as physically challenged human beings in need of medical treatment.

"Modern medical science has found ways to transform eunuchs into full human beings," he said in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh.

Mozammel Hossain, junior government minister for social welfare, said the government would consider his suggestions.