Calling Transgenders an important part of the society, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Punjab Dr S Karuna Raju on Thursday solicited their support and participation in upcoming Punjab Assembly Elections 2022 for shaping democracy.
CEO Dr Raju accompanied by Additional CEO Amandeep Kaur was holding a virtual meeting with representatives of Transgender community to chalk out strategy for 100% enrolment of eligible Transgender electors so that they can exercise their franchise in Assembly Elections. Yashwinder Singh and Manoj Benjwal from The Humsafar Trust, Smriti Acharya and Archana Shetty from Netreach, while, Mohini Mahant and Madan from Mansa Foundation participated in the meeting.
CEO Dr Raju suggested to appoint District Coordinators from Transgender Community in each district, who will help in making Voter ID cards of their ilk besides encouraging them to use their voting right. He assured that Transgenders would face no hassle in making their Voter ID Cards, since the Election Commission has also simplified the documentation process. In absence of address proof, Transgenders can register themselves as voters just by giving undertaking, he added.
Dr Raju apprised that various activities under Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme are being conducted to sensitise Transgenders of their voting rights. “This time, we are creating awareness under the slogan ‘Mahila, Purush Atte Transgender, Loktantar Vich Sab Brabar’ to encourage third-gender voters to cast their votes,” he said.
Dr Raju also accepted the demand of the representatives of Transgender community to organise a workshop or seminar to sensitise the Transgender voters about their right of vote. Meanwhile, voters can approach Block Level Officer (BLO) or call 1950 or use Voter Helpline Application available on Android and IOS to register themselves as voters.
