‘Thanks for Considering us as Humans’, Transgenders from Parivarthan Cast their Votes for the First Time at Milagres
Mangaluru: “I am very happy to be able to vote. For many years we were deprived of our rights to vote because of being transgenders. The society had not accepted us as humans, but Parivarthan Charitable Trust founded by Violet Pereira gave us hopes of leading a respectful life. Today, I have cast my vote for a suitable candidate. I want a good government that listens to our grievances and provides us the facilities to lead a respectful life in society”, said Sanjana, Secretary of Parivarthan Charitable Trust after casting her vote at the Milagres Centre, here on May 12.
Sanjana further said, “For the first time in Dakshina Kannada, 100 transgenders are casting their votes today. Our country gained independence in 1947, but we feel that for the first time on May 12, 2018 we have got our independence by getting the right to vote. It is a proud moment for us today for being able to vote. The Parivarthan Charitable Trust was instrumental in helping us get the voter IDs.”
Speaking to mangalorean.com Shreyana said, “I am very happy to vote in Mangaluru. The Parivarthan Charitable Trust has been helping us to get Aadhar cards, voter IDs, Health cards, medical check-ups, etc. Today, the 41 members from Parivarthan Charitable trust have cast our votes and this is happening for the first time in Dakshina Kannada.”
PCT member Reshma said, “We need to get whatever facilities the government provides. So far some of us have received the Aadhar card, Voter ID and health cards through Parivarthan. Since we are deprived of jobs, we need access to facilities like jobs, pension, housing, etc so that we too can lead a respectable life. At present without any choice, we are forced to beg and be involved in other embarrassing work which is very difficult for us.”
So far more than 30 members have cast their votes at the Milagres centre.