Sexual minorities, 3rd gender to form own party

CHITWAN, June 13: Nepal´s sexual minorities are all set to open their own political party. They say there is stigma attached to being homosexual and forming a political party of their own will help them fight for their identity and their rights.



The national convention of sexual and gender minorities held in Kathmandu on May 22 had taken a decision to this effect.



"We decided to form a political party of our own," said Teju Adhikari, a Chitwan-based lesbian. She announced the formation of a political party at a press meet in Narayanghat, Saturday.



The Federation of Nepal Sexual and Gender Minorities had organized the national convention in May.



According to Adhikari, the name of the new party is Shanti Bikas Batabaran Party (Peace Development Environment Party). Members of organizations of sexual minorities from 36 towns and cities took part in the national convention, she said.



"About 300,000 third-gender people are in touch with several organizations. Once we establish the party they will more confidently and openly join the party organization," said Dev Shrestha, who identifies himself as a guy.



Nepal Blue Diamond Society had pioneered in organizing the sexual minorities. Founder of the Society Sunil Babu Pant is a member of parliament. The Communist Party of Nepal (United) nominated him to the Constituent Assembly.

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