Eunuch promises basic rights to clan

Vellore, Tamil Nadu, Apr 14: A eunuch has jumped into the electoral fray in this fort town and resolved to ensure basic rights to her clan.

Thirty five-year-old Salma filed her papers to contest as an Independent candidate from the Vellore constituency when filing of nominations for the May eight Assembly polls began yesterday.

Undeterred by the presence of powerful political opponents in the fray, including Congress strongman and three-time MLA C Gnanasekaran, Salma expressed confidence of emerging victorious with the support of 5,000-strong transgender community living in the district.

When it comes to the battle of ballot, Salma is not a novice: she had unsuccessfully contested in ward elections twice.

''If I am elected to the Assembly, I will fight for the cause of eunuchs and provide them basic facilities,'' she said.

Matching the poll promises of her opponents, Salma said she would strive for the welfare of poor, besides focusing on drinking water and other amenities.

''People can approach me any time and I will redress their grievances on a warfooting. I will also give special attention to widows and senior citizens,'' she added.

UNI