Pakistan Senate to invite transgender activists to Parliament

Islamabad, Dec 10 A panel of Pakistan Senate has decided to invite transgender activists to discuss issues facing the community and find a way to prevent violations of their rights.

The matter was forwarded to the Senate Standing Committee on Marginalised Segments after Senator Maulana Hafiz Hamdullah raised the issue during a session on Friday, Dawn reported.

The meeting observed that the massive and rampant violations of the rights of transgenders begin from a young age and continue throughout their lives.

The committee chairman, Senator Nisar Mohammad, added that while the Constitution does not discriminate based on gender and ensures the rights of all individuals, "society's behaviour towards transgender(s) is appalling".

The panel asked the National Commission on Human Rights (NCHR) to suggest a way forward in light of a 2012 Supreme Court decision.

The commission has been directed to report its recommendations to the committee at its next meeting.

Four years ago, the apex court decreed equal rights and civil liberties for transgender citizens, including the right to inheritance and equal job opportunities.