Scottish ParliamentQ ManivannanIndian-Origin PoliticianTransgender RightsImmigration Status
Indian-Origin Trans Politician Elected to Scottish Parliament Without Permanent Residency
Published: May 10, 2026
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Q Manivannan, a Tamil Nadu-born transgender politician, has been elected to the Scottish Parliament as a representative of the Scottish Green Party, despite not holding permanent residency or British citizenship in the UK. Manivannan, who moved to Scotland in 2021 to pursue a doctorate in international relations, won a seat from the Edinburgh and Lothians East regional list in the 2026 Scottish Parliament election.
Manivannan, who describes themselves as a “queer Tamil immigrant” and identifies as non-binary, was eligible to contest the election as a Commonwealth citizen with a valid visa, following a rule change by the Scottish National Party government in 2025.
The election has sparked debate and online backlash, with critics questioning whether foreign nationals without permanent residency should be allowed to contest British elections. A spokesperson for the Scottish Greens defended Manivannan, saying they are “on a valid visa with the right to work and live in Scotland,” while criticising the UK immigration system as “hostile and needlessly expensive.”
The Scottish Greens secured a record number of seats in the election, with several candidates coming from diverse ethnic and social backgrounds. The party has reiterated its opposition to violence and support for peace, following scrutiny over some of Manivannan’s past social media posts.
The Scottish Parliament will resume its proceedings, with Manivannan set to take their seat as a newly elected Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP). The election result is expected to be formally confirmed in the coming days, with the Scottish Greens preparing to work with other parties to advance their legislative agenda.