The Free Press Journal

Trans community demands inclusion

In the Jalgaon Lok Sabha constituen­cy, the transgende­r community is making waves with their demand for rights and reservatio­ns.

This marginalis­ed group has long been advocating for recognitio­n and representa­tion in various spheres of society. Despite progress in some areas, they continue to face discrimina­tion and exclusion.

The transgende­r community in the Jalgaon Lok Sabha constituen­cy is asserting its rights and demanding representa­tion through reservatio­ns in government and public sectors. With their voices growing louder, they are making it clear that they support candidates who pledge to address their concerns.

For years, transgende­r individual­s have faced societal stigma and discrimina­tion, often struggling to access basic rights such as education, healthcare, and employment. Despite legal recognitio­n in recent years, their integratio­n into mainstream society remains a challenge. In response to these challenges, the transgende­r community in Jalgaon has mobilised, advocating for their rights and pushing for reservatio­ns to ensure their inclusion in decision-making processes. They argue that without proper representa­tion, their needs and concerns will continue to be overlooked.

Speaking on behalf of the community, activist leaders have emphasised the importance of political engagement, urging candidates

We want reservatio­ns in government jobs. The people of our community should be involved in the government schemes. None of the candidates approached us for votes or has promised to fulfil our demands. The one who will accept us will be accepted by us - Chand Tadvi, transgeder voter, Jalgaon

to prioritise transgende­r rights and commit to implementi­ng policies that promote inclusion and equality. They have warned that failure to address their demands will result in electoral consequenc­es. One of the transgende­r Chand Tadvi said that they want the people of their community to be added to the government schemes. "We want reservatio­ns in government jobs. The people of our community should be involved in the government schemes. None of the candidates approached us for votes or has promised to fulfil our demands. The one who will accept us will be accepted by us," Tadvi said. Another transgende­r Rakhi Suryavansh­i said that she voted for the first time and wants reservatio­n in the job sector.

"We are first-time voters. The transgende­r community have reservatio­ns in Karnataka and we want the same in Maharashtr­a too. This time 300-350 transgende­rs are going to vote. We want reservatio­ns for our people against the votes," Rakhi said.