‘AAP failed us’: Transwoman files nomination papers from Kalkaji

Stating that the ruling Aam Aadmi Party has “failed to uplift transgender community”, Rajan Singh, 27, who identifies herself as a transwoman, on Wednesday filed her nomination papers from the Kalkaji, the home constituency Chief Minister Atishi for the Delhi Assembly poll.

Ms. Singh said in the past 10 years, “no work has been done” for the transgender community in Delhi, adding that she hopes to bring a change.

A resident of Sangam Vihar, Ms. Singh is a candidate of the Aam Janata Party, which was formed in October 2024. She said the party was started to give a voice to those who need it.

She complained that AAP has promised monthly aid for women, pujaris and granthis, but the party has announced no such assistance or scheme for the transgender community.

“AAP will face the brunt of the transgender community in the election this time,” she alleged.

Stating that education and employment are the keys to uplift transgender persons, Ms. Singh said, “If voted to power, my priority would bring reservation for my community in school and higher education and in jobs, construct separate wards in hospitals, and public toilets for transgender persons.”

Ms. Singh had earlier contested from the South Delhi constituency in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections as an Independent candidate. Even though Ms. Singh secured just over 300 votes, she said her community and its needs are becoming more visible in politics now. “People have slowly realised that we [transgender persons] matter, and that our votes too matter.”

According to Election Commission of India data, there are 1,261 registered ‘third gender’ voters in Delhi.

Published - January 16, 2025 01:22 am IST