Transgenders feel marginalised in Delhi elections

India, a country with one of the oldest civilisational histories and renowned for its deep-rooted spiritual and religious traditions, is witnessing remarkable progress in fields like entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, technological advancements, and education.

- SAURABH SHARMA

Yet, a dark shadow looms over this tremendous growth-the persistent neglect and marginalisation of the transgender community.

As Delhi gears up for the Assembly elections on February 5, political parties are campaigning aggressively, offering several promises to woo the voters. However, in the midst of these noisy and bustling campaigns, the transgender community remains sidelined, their voices unheard, and their struggles unaddressed. If this is happening in the capital, one can only imagine the plight of transgender people in other parts of the country.

According to the 2011 national census, Delhi has nearly 4,213 transgender people, and this number is likely to increase manifold.

Yet, the Election Commission shows that only 1,261 third-gender individuals are registered to vote in Delhi this year. This strikingly small number is a result of systemic barriers and a lack of awareness within the community.

Rudrani Chhetri, founder of Delhi-based Mitr Trust, an LGBTQ charity, explained to The Sunday Guardian that many transgender individuals lack the necessary Transgender Certificate and Identity Card (TG card).