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Transgender Voter Count In Mumbai Barely Passes 4-Digit Mark

Mumbai has seen a significant increase of 73 per cent in the registration of transgender or ‘third gender’ voters for the Lok Sabha polls this year. 

However, despite these efforts, many transgender individuals remain elusive on election day. It has been observed that most transgender people register to obtain an Election Photo Identity Card (EPIC) as a form of documentation.

According to data from the Election Commission of India (ECI), 1,036 transgender voters have registered in Mumbai, with 812 from suburban areas and 224 from the city.

In 2019, only 600 transgender voters registered in Mumbai, 494 from the suburbs and 106 from the city.

The ECI data for this year shows that 411 transgender voters registered from the suburban Mumbai North constituency. Notably, Malad West, which falls under this constituency, recorded the highest number of registrations, with 339 transgender voters.

In the Mumbai North East constituency, 236 transgender voters have registered, with the highest registration occurring in Ghatkopar East, totalling 120 transgender voters.

In the island city, Sion Koliwada has seen 77 transgender voters registered, followed by Mahim with 65 registrations.

Mumbai Suburban Collector Rajendra Kshirsagar mentioned that the actual number of transgender voters is likely higher.

Kshirsagar stated, “Not everyone who identifies as the third gender registers themselves under this category. Due to social stigmas, many still register under conventional male or female categories. Therefore, I believe the actual number of voters identifying as third gender would be higher than the reported figures.” 

Manisha Goel, who leads a self-help group working with members of the transgender community, noted, “Many individuals from the community are becoming increasingly aware of their rights, particularly with the rise of social media. They also recognize the importance of voting, are eager to register for voting, and even consider running in elections. 

In 2019, we witnessed several candidates from the third gender contesting in the polls as well.” 

According to ECI data, Mumbai has registered 53.24 lakh male voters and 45.68 lakh female voters this year. The country’s financial capital will go to polls in the third phase on May 20.

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