The inclusion of the ‘others’ option for describing one’s gender in the voters’ list was viewed as a creditable and long-overdue move on part of Election Commission of India (ECI) in 2011. However, Punekars have seemingly vetoed this amendment, as not one transgender person from the city has so far been identified in the list. However, ECI’s initiative has inspired the district election department, which is now going the extra mile by conducting special meetings with members of the community to encourage them into coming forward.

Colours of courage: Mehendi artist Rajesh More (left), before the sex reassignment surgery