Mangaluru: The Navahasaja Community Organisation has distanced itself from the alleged ‘Ani Mangaluru’ case and called for a comprehensive investigation into a suspected fake transgender identity card racket in the region.
Addressing a press conference at the Mangaluru Press Club on April 14, organisation representatives strongly condemned the misuse of government schemes through forged identity documents. They urged authorities to take strict legal action against individuals involved in creating and facilitating fake transgender identity cards.
No organisational link to accused, says president
Organisation president Nikhila clarified that Navahasaja has no connection with the alleged activities of Ani, who is said to be at the centre of the controversy.
“Ani, originally from Raichur, has been living in Mangaluru for the past four to five years. She brought an unknown person from Mysuru, whom she met on social media, to the city. Without informing the organisation, she allegedly helped the individual obtain a fake Aadhaar card using a Mangaluru address and secured a National Transgender Identity Card by submitting false details,” Nikhila stated.
She added that the individual has since fled to Mysuru and is allegedly spreading misinformation about the transgender community in Mangaluru on social media platforms.
Concerns over fake TG cards
Highlighting the scale of the issue, Nikhila said that during a recent district-level meeting, it was revealed that around 50 transgender (TG) identity cards had been issued, raising suspicions that several of them could be fake.
“This is deeply concerning as it creates injustice for genuine members of the community who already struggle with identity issues. Fake cards are reportedly being used to earn easy money, including through begging activities,” she said.
She noted that the Deputy Commissioner has directed a verification process in coordination with the Women’s Development Corporation. The organisation has welcomed this move and demanded that all those found guilty be punished after a thorough investigation.
Rising concerns over outsiders
Nikhila also expressed concern about the increasing presence of individuals from outside districts and states posing as transgender persons in Mangaluru.
“Earlier, the community here largely consisted of local members. Now, people from other districts and even Hindi-speaking regions are entering and operating in groups, often under a ‘guru’ system. Many are seen at traffic signals, allegedly posing as transgender persons to earn money easily,” she said.
She further claimed that some individuals with families have managed to obtain transgender identity cards, which is creating additional challenges for genuine members of the community.
Internal lapse and demand for accountability
Nikhila revealed that Ani had been a board member of the organisation but had concealed key information regarding the issuance of an identity card to a person from Nanjangud.
She questioned Ani’s claim that her own identity card was lost, asking why no formal complaint had been filed if that were the case. “A detailed investigation is required to identify all those who supported these illegal activities,” she said.
Call to protect genuine community members
Emphasising that the actions of a few individuals should not tarnish the reputation of the entire transgender community, Nikhila urged authorities to ensure justice for genuine members in Dakshina Kannada district.
“The community should not suffer because of a handful of people misusing the system. Proper verification and strict enforcement are necessary to protect the rights and dignity of genuine transgender persons,” she asserted.
Conclusion
The Navahasaja organisation’s statement brings attention to the alleged misuse of identity mechanisms meant to support marginalised communities. As authorities initiate verification processes, the outcome of the investigation is expected to play a crucial role in restoring trust and ensuring that benefits reach the rightful beneficiaries.