Bihar State Transgender Board Approves Temple Dedicated to Prime Minister Modi
In an unprecedented move, Bihar's Transgender Welfare Board has sanctioned the construction of a temple honoring PM Narendra Modi. The initiative recognizes federal legislative efforts to secure institutional rights and social recognition for the community.
Institutional Recognition and the Proposed Shrine
During its inaugural session on July 29, 2026, the Bihar State Transgender Welfare Board officially endorsed a proposal to construct a temple dedicated to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Board member Ranjan Singh, who introduced the motion, stated that the project honors the Prime Minister for granting the community long-overdue respect and legal standing. This decision emerged from the first assembly of the Board since its formation in August 2025 under the Social Welfare Department.
Legislative Milestones and Police Integration
The Board's current operations stem from the Transgender Persons Protection of Rights Act, 2019. This federal law established the framework for institutional representation within state secretariats. Progress in Bihar has already manifested through several key developments:
- Initial recruitment of transgender individuals into the Bihar police force following judicial mandates.
- The appointment of several community members to the rank of sub-inspector.
- The 2025 political candidacy of 41-year-old Priti Kinnar, who ran for the Bhore constituency under the Jan Suraaj Party.
- The 2023 launch of Satrangi Dostana Restro in Patna, the first restaurant in the state managed by transgender staff.
Demographic Discrepancies and Social Challenges
Despite these advancements, significant data conflicts persist regarding the community's size in Bihar. Official 2011 census data recorded 40,827 transgender residents. However, a 2022 state caste survey listed only 825 individuals, a figure representing a mere 0.0006% of Bihar's 13.7 crore people. Community leaders vigorously challenge these findings, suggesting the actual population is closer to 300,000 when accounting for those who remain unregistered or uncounted. An anonymous community member noted that while legal frameworks are improving, the daily reality for many remains difficult, requiring sustained public and governmental intervention for true empowerment.
Source: The Hindu — News
