Analysis: Electoral gender gap in Bihar
The ECI divides individuals into two categories: electors and voters. Electors are individuals who are eligible to vote i.e they have a voter id card and voters are the electors who actually voted. According to the 2011 census there are about 40,800 individuals belonging transgender community in Bihar out of which 2,400 , in accord to ECI data on 2020 Bihar state election, are eligible voters i.e they have a voter id card. Which is 6 percent of the total transgender community.
The above graph shows the disparity among the voters on gender paradigm. Throughout these one and a half decades women have voted on an average of 58% and men have voted on an average of 52%. But even though being an equal citizen, more than half of the transgender community don’t even have a voter id card.
The five major Districts: Madhubani, Patna, East Champaran, West Champaran and Katihar have an electoral population of 170, 169, 131, 123 and 115 but have a voters population of 1, 7, 4, 0 and 2 respectively. Not even 10% of the individuals belonging to transgender community vote.
The Line Graph Below shows the huge difference in the Trangender electoral politics of the 2020 Bihar state election. Suggesting that the transgender community have no political life !
The historic neglect of transgender politics in Bihar has had detrimental consequences, with over half of the transgender population in the state lacking a voter ID card. This staggering reality highlights the deep-rooted discrimination and exclusion that transgender individuals face. Throughout history, the voices and concerns of transgender people have been systematically ignored, resulting in a lack of inclusive policies, legislation, and support systems. This neglect perpetuates their marginalization and denies them basic rights and opportunities. Without a voter ID card, transgender individuals are unable to exercise their democratic right to participate in the electoral process and have their voices heard. This exclusion further reinforces their invisibility in political decision-making and denies them a say in shaping policies that directly impact their lives. Urgent steps must be taken to rectify this situation, including implementing inclusive policies, raising awareness about transgender rights, and ensuring equal access to identification documents. By addressing the historic neglect of transgender politics and providing transgender individuals with the necessary tools to participate in the democratic process, Bihar can take a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
-Priyanshu Kumar
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News12 July 2023Analysis: Electoral gender gap in Bihar
