Transgenders enter into civic bodies poll fray

Concerned over basic civic problems in their area, two transgenders have filed nominations to contest the local body elections from Kota and Bharatpur districts.

Both have started rigorous campaigning by targeting the BJP and the Congress for ignoring local issues.

Rina Kinner, 31, is contesting Kota Municipal election as an independent candidate. It is the first election for Rina but like any other seasoned politician she blames the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress for ignoring their responsibilities.
She also has a long list of promises to make.

“It’s for the first time that I am contesting any election. But I know the basic problems of the people. Ensuring drinking water, uninterrupted power supply, well-maintained road and proper sanitation will be my priority,” said Rina who left her studies after class 7.

Another transgender, Nitu Kinner is contesting from ward no 29 of Bharatpur city. When asked about her education, she was blunt enough to reply that she has enough education to make her eligible to contest the polls.

“Corrupt politicians who are presently behind the bars were all highly educated but what did they do. You need to have determination and will power to work for the people and solve their problem,” said Nitu.

This is for the first time when two transgenders are in poll fray.

In 2008 local body elections, Mamta Devi contested for the post of chairman of the Rawatbhata municipality as an independent and came out with flying colours. In the same year, Sonam Kinner contested from ward no 22 in Ajmer Municipal Corporation but secured second position. Later she became councillor after being nominated by the then Congress government.
“We have two transgenders who have served as councillors after winning previous elections. It means they were accepted by the people. The irony is that constitution gives us right to contest elections but none of the governments have ever done anything for the betterment of our community.  So it’s better to be a part of governance,” said Neetu Kinner.

Meanwhile, after announcing the tickets for local body elections, both the BJP and the Congress are gearing up to take serious action against rebels. Those contesting against the party candidate will be served notices and expelled from the party for a minimum period of six years.