Eunuch candidate files nomination from Varanasi to take on Modi, Kejriwal

Kamla Kinnar became the first eunuch to enter the poll fray from Modi's constituency of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, after the country's apex court recognised 'transgender' as a third gender.

Kamla filed her nomination against prime ministerial candidate of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Narendra Modi, and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday as an independent candidate.

Kamla said that although this was a day of double celebration for her because of supreme court's ruling, but she only wished the court could do something for the welfare of the people.

"We are grateful to the Supreme Court for its decision to recognise us as the third gender. But we want that they do something for our people," said Kamla.

The Supreme Court on April 15 recognised India's long marginalised transgender community as a third gender and, in a landmark judgment lauded by human rights groups, called on the government to ensure their equal treatment.

Kamla had earlier claimed that no politician has done much for their community and they shall continue to fight their own battle and hence, had decided to give a tough fight to Modi.

Kamla said their election symbol is likely to be a red dot or a bangle, which would define their cause.

The group of Kamla's supporters moved towards the election registrar's office singing and dancing.

They are pinning their hopes on her for an improved society.

"This is the first nomination by a eunuch after getting reservation in the third gender. The eunuch is fighting from Varanasi and we would request the people to give her support and to make her win," said a supporter, Babli.

Due to their lack of access to jobs and education, many male-to-female transgenders - also known as "hijras" - are forced to work as sex workers or move around in organised groups begging or demanding money.