Khwaja Sara (transgender) people, members of the Aurat March and Sindh Moorat March, staged a protest in Karachi, Pakistan, demanding protection and justice for the transgender community [cce1d153]. The protest was in response to a mob attack on March 18, 2024, where a group of transgenders in Gulistan-e-Jauhar was assaulted by a mob of over 100 men. The attackers threatened the victims with phrases like 'We will burn you all' and resorted to physical and sexual assault. Representatives of the Aurat March and Sindh Moorat March highlighted the urgent need for justice for the marginalized transgender community. They emphasized a hate campaign that has increased transphobia by over 200% in Pakistan [cce1d153].
During the protest, the demonstrators demanded several actions to address the violence and discrimination faced by the transgender community. They called for the legal classification of transphobic speech as hate speech, the establishment of Tahaffuz Centres for the trans community, the enforcement of the Transgender Persons [Protection of Rights] Act of 2018, and a public apology from the perpetrators of the mob attack. They also demanded police protection for the transgender community [cce1d153].
The protest highlights the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by the transgender community in Pakistan. The increase in transphobia and hate campaigns further exacerbates the challenges faced by this marginalized community. It is crucial for the government and society to take immediate action to protect the rights and ensure the safety of transgender individuals. Implementing and enforcing existing legislation, such as the Transgender Persons [Protection of Rights] Act of 2018, is essential in addressing these issues. Additionally, raising awareness and promoting acceptance can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for the transgender community [cce1d153].
In a separate development, Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana has launched 'Sweekar', a project aimed at empowering the transgender community in Chandigarh, India. Khurrana has invested in building food trucks for the community to help them become self-reliant. The food trucks, called 'Sweekar', were handed over to the transgender community in Zirakpur, Chandigarh. Dhananjay Chauhan, the first transgender student of Panjab University, received the keys to the food trucks. Khurrana believes that self-reliance is crucial for protecting human rights and promoting inclusivity in the country [161bc59d].
The initiative by Ayushmann Khurrana is a significant step towards empowering the transgender community in Chandigarh. By providing food trucks, the project aims to create opportunities for self-employment and economic independence for transgender individuals. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of promoting inclusivity and protecting human rights. It is essential for society to support and uplift marginalized communities, such as the transgender community, to ensure equal opportunities and a more inclusive society [161bc59d].