PHC seeks report on welfare of transgender community

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has summoned key authorities, including the Secretary Home and Law, over allegations of police harassment and forced relocation of transgender individuals. The court has directed them to submit a comprehensive report on the issue.

The case was brought before the court through a petition filed by members of the transgender community. They claimed that law enforcement and administrative authorities were discriminating against them, subjecting them to harassment, and in some cases, relocating them to other districts in the province, a practice referred to as “district deportment.” According to the petitioners, these actions violate their basic right to life and dignity.

During the hearing, a PHC bench noted that the allegations could not be ignored. Notices have been issued to the Inspector General of Police, the Chief Secretary, and the Social Welfare Department, among others. The court has instructed them to submit a detailed report on the welfare, safety, and protection of transgender individuals, including measures to prevent exploitation.

The court accentuated that the state has a mandatory duty to safeguard the fundamental rights of all citizens, regardless of sexual identity or social status, and to ensure the safety, dignity, and living conditions of transgender people.

Legal experts have described the court’s intervention as a significant step in protecting the rights of the transgender community. The order reinforces that law enforcement and administrative authorities must prioritise the dignity, safety, and rights of transgender individuals.

The court also warned that failure to comply with its directives could result in further legal action, signaling strict oversight of the matter.