Transgender T Ramakka tests the waters in Karnataka's Kampli constituency

BALLARI: For the first time, a transgender candidate is contesting assembly election from Kampli constituency of Ballari district through the newly formed Desh Prema party ticket.
T Ramakka of Badanahatti village, Kurugod taluk, is now competing with BJP and Congress in Kampli assembly constituency. She is said to be the only transgender candidate contesting in the state.
Braving the scorching summer heat, she is touring her constituency and visiting people in villages seeking support to win the election.
T Ramakka, who is also a Jogati, told TOI that all national parties and regional parties are announcing various schemes for the welfare of people of their respective caste and religions.
"There is no specific scheme for the welfare of transgender community. We are facing numerous problems as we are a suppressed community. Most transgenders have to resort to begging to eke out their livelihood. They are living in very pathetic conditions and must be brought to the mainstream by empowering them. I am the only transgender person in the entire state to contest the assembly election. I have been receiving support from my community," she said.
"I decided to fight for the cause of transgenders and also to uplift the lives of the poor and farmers in my constituency, which is why I have contested elections. When there was a big fight to get tickets in national parties, I approached the newly floated Desh Prema party and got a ticket. The Election Commission has allotted me 'Truck' as my election symbol," Ramakkka added.
Ramakka's campaign
"I perform the Jogati dance during cultural programmes sponsored by Kannada and culture department to earn my living. I also go begging once a week. Now, some people who are concerned about our community in my constituency are bearing the expenses of my election," Ramakka said.
"When I visit houses in my constituency, people receive me with a lot of respect. I explain to them the reason behind my contesting the election. Most of them have appreciated my decision. I know winning is not so easy, but I am trying my best to give a good fight in the election," Ramakka said.
"My constituency is facing several problems including farmers losing crops, no compensation, no good roads and water supply issues. If I am voted to power by people, I will work for the welfare of the people of my community, the poor and farmers in my constituency," she said.