India elects its first transgender mayor in Raigarh

A transgender scripted history by winning civic polls in Raigarh, after defeating nearest rival from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Independent candidate Madhu, won the mayor election of the Raigarh Municipal Corporation by 4,537 votes against BJP's Mahaveer Guruji.

Madhu, 35, belonging to Dalit community, is the first transgender person to get elected as mayor in the state.

After winning, Madhu said people had shown faith in her and will put best efforts to accomplish their dreams.

"I have seen that the roads of this city are in deplorable condition. There are many poor people also who don't have a place to live. I want to fulfill their demands. I would make sure that people of my community don't do anything that causes shame to us and I would like to give them some opportunities so that they become economically independent," said Madhu.

Meanwhile, Chhattisgarh chief minister Raman Singh wished the winning candidates.

"I congratulate all the mayors and councillors who won. I hope they will fulfill their responsibilities and will cooperate with the government for the state's development," said Singh.