Madurai transgender to give a tough fight

Scripting another chapter to her battle in securing her community’s rights, a well-known transgender and activist in Tamil Nadu is making her electoral attempt in the May 16 polls.

The 55-year old Bharathi Kannamma, who will be filing her nomination papers to contest as an independent candidate from the Madurai constituency, has not only launched her whirlwind campaign but also unveiled her own election manifesto.

A post graduate in sociology, Bharathi said she would create employment opportunities for youths by making the city industry-based. “I do not have a family. Therefore I could devote more time for Madurai people and will address their issues,” she added.

Bharathi, who also contested in the last Lok Sabha polls and secured more than 12,000 votes, also promised to take necessary steps to secure international status for Madurai airport and fight for the rights of the transgender community in Tamil Nadu.

Kannamma, who worked as marketing manager in a private bank, has been involved in social work and the uplift of transgenders in the region for some years. Hoping for a miracle to secure the seat, Kannama said, “We can also represent the people if the voters give us the opportunity.”