Nepal has made step towards inclusivity with the entry of Bhumika Shrestha, a prominent LGBTQ rights activist, into Parliament as the country’s first transgender woman lawmaker. Her selection under the proportional representation system marks a historic moment for Nepal and a notable development for South Asia. It also reflects the changing political landscape after the 2025 unrest and the subsequent elections in March 2026.
Historic Parliamentary Entry
Bhumika Shrestha, 37, became a Member of Parliament on 16 March 2026. She was chosen through the proportional representation route and is associated with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). Her entry is seen as a breakthrough for transgender representation in formal politics.
Nepal’s LGBTQ Rights Framework
Nepal has long been viewed as one of South Asia’s more progressive countries on LGBTQ rights. Key milestones include:
- A ban on discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in 2007.
- Introduction of a third-gender category in citizenship documents in 2013.
- Permission for an others option in passports in 2015.
- Supreme Court approval for registration of same-sex and transgender marriages in 2023.
Despite these legal advances, political representation remained limited until Shrestha’s election.
Political Context After 2025 Unrest
The March 2026 elections followed months of unrest that led to the fall of the previous government. The RSP, led by Balendra Shah, won a strong mandate but fell short of a two-thirds majority. This shift created space for new political voices and underrepresented communities to enter Parliament.
Significance For Representation
Shrestha’s election is being viewed as a symbolic and practical milestone. Community leaders have said that constitutional protections must now be translated into laws and policies. Her presence in Parliament is expected to strengthen advocacy on equality, legal recognition, and social justice for Nepal’s transgender community.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026