Transgender community decries job discrimination

FAISALABAD:

On the occasion of International Transgender Day, members of the transgender community in Faisalabad voiced serious concerns over discrimination and the non-implementation of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2018, particularly the failure to enforce the three percent job quota in government and semi-government institutions.

Dr Farri, a Victim Support Officer at a Police Service Center, said despite being highly qualified, transgender individuals continue to face barriers in securing stable employment.

She holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad but struggled to find work in her field.

Recalling her experience, she said that while working temporarily at a private dairy farm, she faced verbal abuse and insensitive remarks from employers and the public.

"People would say it felt strange seeing me treat animals," she added.

Dr Farri said she applied to several government departments under the reserved quota but was not selected.

She acknowledged that former Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar facilitated employment opportunities for transgender individuals at Police Service Centers, but noted that these positions are contractual and lack job security.

She further highlighted that employees are paid Rs30,000 per month, below minimum wage standards, making it difficult to sustain a livelihood amid rising inflation.

"We cannot support our families or live with dignity under these conditions," she said, urging the government to grant permanent employment and fair salaries.

Dr Farri added that despite completing only six months of service, uncertainty looms over her future due to the contractual nature of the job, with no policy in place for regularisation. She also pointed out that transgender individuals face frequent harassment in public spaces, including markets and social gatherings.

Inspector Madiha, in charge of the Police Service Center, said a dedicated protection center has been established to address the concerns of the transgender community.