MONDAY, MAY 20, 2024
Team Herald
In a significant step towards inclusivity, the transgender community in Goa has made its presence felt in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Madhu Gupta, a transgender individual from Santacruz, cast her vote for the first time, marking a crucial milestone for the community.
"It is every person's right to vote, and we are entitled to select the leader of our choice as well. It has made us very happy to be included," said Madhu Gupta, expressing her excitement about the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.
According to reports, there are around 9 to 10 transgender individuals across Goa who will be casting their votes in the Lok Sabha election. The major cities of Margao, Vasco, Panjim, and Calangute have registered transgender voters on their electoral lists.
While members of the transgender community have been participating in elections using their male-registered voter IDs in the past, this time, some of them will be casting their votes under their recognized identity, following the Supreme Court's landmark judgment in 2014, which declared transgender individuals as the third gender.
"We feel proud as we have contributed towards the future. People should come out and vote in large numbers to shape the future of India," Madhu Gupta added, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement.
The inclusion of the transgender community in the electoral process is a significant step towards greater representation and empowerment.
