Faisalabad [Pakistan], April 1 (ANI): On the International Transgender Day, members of the transgender community in Faisalabad raised alarm over continued discrimination and the weak enforcement of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018. They particularly criticised authorities for failing to implement the mandated three per cent employment quota in public sector and semi-government institutions, as reported by The Express Tribune.

According to The Express Tribune, Dr Farri, currently serving as a Victim Support Officer at a Police Service Centre, highlighted the systemic barriers faced by transgender individuals despite strong educational credentials. A graduate of the University of Agriculture Faisalabad with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, she said she struggled to secure stable employment in her field. Her professional journey has been marked by exclusion and bias.

Recalling her brief stint at a private dairy farm, Dr Farri shared that she encountered derogatory comments and inappropriate behaviour from both employers and the public. She noted that her presence as a transgender professional in veterinary care was often met with discomfort and ridicule. Despite applying to multiple government departments under the reserved quota, she was repeatedly overlooked.

While acknowledging that former Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar created limited employment opportunities for transgender individuals at Police Service Centres, she stated that these roles remain contractual. The absence of permanent positions and job security continues to leave employees vulnerable. With a monthly salary of Rs 30,000, below the minimum wage, many struggle to cope with rising living costs. Such conditions make it nearly impossible for transgender individuals to maintain financial stability or dignity, as cited by The Express Tribune.

Dr Farri further noted the lack of a clear policy on job regularisation, adding that even after months of service, she remains uncertain about her future. Beyond employment, she emphasised that transgender individuals frequently face harassment in public spaces, including markets and social settings. Inspector Madiha, who heads the Police Service Centre, stated that a dedicated protection facility has been established to address the community's concerns, as reported by The Express Tribune. (ANI)