Police investigate attempted attack on transgender activist Bindiya Rana

WEB DESK: Police have launched an investigation after prominent transgender rights activist Bindiya Rana survived an armed attack at her residence in Karachi during the early hours of Monday, renewing concerns over the safety of the transgender community in the city.

An FIR has been registered at the Baloch Colony police station on Rana’s complaint under Sections 34 (common intention) and 324 (attempt to murder) of the Pakistan Penal Code.

According to the police report, the incident occurred around 2am when two unidentified armed men rang the doorbell of Rana’s house. As the door was opened, the suspects allegedly attempted to force their way inside and opened fire when resistance was offered.

Rana and fellow transgender rights activist Zehrish Soomro, a town councillor of the Town Municipal Committee Safoora representing the PPP, were present in the house at the time. Speaking to reporters, Soomro said the attackers fled the scene after firing shots, adding that Rana fell during the chaos while trying to protect herself.

No injuries were reported, and police said an investigation was underway to identify and apprehend the suspects.

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Soomro described the incident as part of a disturbing pattern of violence targeting transgender individuals in Karachi. Rana has urged law enforcement authorities to strengthen security measures in the area, particularly for members of the transgender community.

In recent years, transgender persons in the city have repeatedly reported threats, harassment and violent attacks, including targeted killings. In September 2025, the bodies of three transgender individuals, riddled with bullet wounds, were found dumped near Memon Goth along the Super Highway, triggering outrage and widespread condemnation.