Nepal Confirms First Transgender Lawmaker
Kathmandu — In a historic milestone for inclusivity and LGBTQ rights, Bhumika Shrestha has been confirmed as Nepal’s first transgender woman lawmaker. The Election Commission officially announced her election to the House of Representatives under the proportional representation system from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), following the party’s strong performance in recent parliamentary elections.
Shrestha, 37, has long been a prominent advocate for sexual and gender minority rights in Nepal, where constitutional provisions guarantee LGBTQ protections but social acceptance has often lagged behind legal recognition. Her election is celebrated as a breakthrough for transgender representation and a reflection of growing social inclusivity in the country.
Born in Kathmandu, Shrestha has been actively involved with the Blue Diamond Society, one of Nepal’s leading LGBTQ organizations, working to raise awareness and promote legal protections for transgender and third-gender individuals. Her journey from activism to parliament underscores the progress Nepal has made in advancing rights for sexual and gender minorities.
Shrestha’s presence in parliament is expected to provide a voice for policies addressing issues such as legal recognition, healthcare access, anti-discrimination measures, and social inclusion. While Nepal has previously elected openly LGBTQ leaders, including Sunil Babu Pant, Shrestha’s confirmation marks the first time a transgender woman will serve in the national legislature.
Civil society groups and human rights advocates have hailed Shrestha’s election as a historic moment not just for Nepal but for South Asia, highlighting the nation’s leadership in LGBTQ inclusivity in politics. As she assumes her parliamentary seat, many hope her presence will help transform constitutional guarantees into tangible reforms, furthering equality across the country.
