Bharathi Kannamma has become the first transgender woman to run for parliament in India. She is running as an independent candidate.

She is running in the city of Madurai, in Tamil Nadu state, with polling day this Thursday.

Kannamma, 53, has said that she hopes to build on the progress of the recent ruling recognizing a third gender and condemning discrimination.

Kannamma has a masters degree in sociology and previously worked as an area sales manager at a bank. After coming out in 2004, she left her job and set up a foundation dedicated to helping financially disadvantaged hijras.

Kannamma told reporters: ““Even when people come to see me talk, they have certain set notions.

“It is only when they hear what I have to say and see me in person that they can get past the fact that I am a transgender.

“I have nothing to fear and I have no vested interest in being corrupt and the people see that.”

She also emphasized the importance of education and employment opportunities in helping transgender people be seen as a valuable part of society.

“When transgenders make an economic contribution to their families, families will also hesitate to shun them.”