KARACHI: In a significant move toward social inclusion and institutional support, the Spokesperson for the Sindh Government, Sukdev Hemnani, chaired a high-level consultative session with representatives of the transgender community in Karachi. The meeting focused on dismantling systemic barriers and ensuring the effective integration of the community into the socio-economic fabric of the province.
Key Highlights and Strategic Decisions
Enforcement of Employment Quotas: The chair issued directives to ensure the 0.5% mandatory job quota for transgender individuals is strictly implemented across all government departments. Hemnani emphasized that Sindh holds the distinction of being the first province to legislate this affirmative action.
Establishment of District Facilitation Desks: To streamline access to public services, the government is deliberating the setup of dedicated Facilitation Desks at the district level. These desks aim to provide a “single-window” solution for legal, social, and administrative grievances.
Expansion of Social Safety Nets: Addressing the hurdles faced by the community regarding the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Hemnani assured the participants that registration issues and biometric verification hurdles would be resolved on a priority basis.
Human Capital Development: The forum reviewed ongoing progress in the sectors of healthcare, specialized education, and vocational training to enhance the employability and well-being of transgender citizens.
A Vision for Equality
During the session, Sukdev Hemnani underscored the government’s commitment to progressive legislation, stating:
“The Sindh Government is currently in the process of drafting Pakistan’s first-ever Transgender Education Policy. Our goal is to create an academic environment that is sensitive to the unique challenges faced by the community while fostering talent without discrimination.”
