Transgender desk established at Peshawar’s Gulbahar police station

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar Police have announced plans to integrate transgender individuals into its operations and establish a dedicated desk at the Gulbahar Police Station, aimed at addressing the concerns and challenges faced by the transgender community.

This marks a historic development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as it represents the first time that transgender individuals will be actively involved in police operations and community outreach.

Responding to persistent demands from the transgender community for enhanced representation and support within the law enforcement system, the Gulbahar Police Station, strategically located in an area with a significant transgender population, has been selected as the pilot site for this initiative.

SSP Operations Peshawar, Kashif Aftab Abbasi, underscored the significance of this step, emphasizing its pivotal role in building trust and fostering inclusivity within the police department. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by the transgender community, he stressed the need for specialized attention and support.

To facilitate the implementation of this initiative, the Peshawar Police has collaborated with the Khawajsara Association, a local organisation advocating for transgender rights. The association has been requested to provide three names of suitable candidates for the dedicated desk. Following a thorough verification process, these individuals will be appointed as assistants, responsible for handling issues specific to the transgender community. Their roles will include assisting transgender individuals in filing FIRs, offering guidance on legal matters, and addressing any grievances or concerns.

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This groundbreaking step is expected to not only improve the relationship between the transgender community and the Peshawar Police but also set a precedent for similar initiatives throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. By promoting greater inclusivity, the establishment of this dedicated desk aims to ensure that the transgender community receives the support and protection it rightfully deserves.