Allahabad: At a time when different political parties are preparing to flex their muscles against each other, head of the Kinnar Akhara Acharya Mahamandeleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi has decided to contest the ensuing Lok Sabha elections from the Allahabad seat.However, she has yet not opened her cards as to from which party she would contest the elections, but maintained that she would go with the one which works for the welfare of the transgender community.Tripathi’s Kinnar Akhara had hogged the limelight at the just-concluded Kumbh Mela, where scores of devotees made a beeline to seek blessings from the seers. Despite being denied recognition by the Akhara Parishad — comprising 13 main akharas — it was the first time when Kinnar Akhara seers arrived with Juna Akhara saints for a holy dip at Sangam.“The love of the people of Allahabad was so immense that I decided to test the poll waters... I could contest as an independent if I am not convinced that a political party would focus on the issues of transgenders,” said Tripathi.Tripathi had given a clear hint about her political ambition, when TOI spoke to her during Kumbh last month. Asked about her ambition of becoming an MP, she had said, “Mai Acharya Mahamadaleshwar hun, Prime Minister bhi aayega to pair chuyega…President bhi aayega to pair chu ke jayega (I’m Acharya Mahamandeleshwar. Even PM and President would touch my feet)” But was quick to add, “Shanknaad ho chuka hai 2019 elections ka (the bugul of the 2019 elections has been sounded) .”She had said, “I see myself with the honest and justified politicians, which none are there.”Announcing her decision, she has said, “I will work for the betterment of the masses. Since I don’t have a family, I won’t indulge in corrupt practices.”Presently, Tripathi is in Delhi and sources informed that she would announce the party she would contest from on March 28, when she would visit the city to participate in the ‘Ram katha’ event at Mahewa in Kaushambi.Although Tripathi had shown an equidistance from all political parties during Kumbh, Juna Akhara, of which Kinnar Akhara is a member, has an inclination towards the BJP.Tripathi is still in consultation with different political parties, but her supporters have already launched an online campaign in her favour. Banners and posters with slogans like ‘Prayagraj ki yahi pukar, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi bane sansad abki baar’ can be seen at various places.

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