Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Introduces New Policy for Welfare and Protection of Transgender Persons
Peshawar: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has introduced a comprehensive new policy aimed at protecting transgender persons from harassment, violence, and discrimination, while promoting their social and economic rehabilitation.
According to policy documents, a special endowment fund will be established for the first time in the province to improve the economic conditions of transgender individuals. The policy also provides for the establishment of rehabilitation centers, safe homes, and community shelters to support vulnerable members of the community.
A Transgender Persons Welfare Registry and an official database will be developed to ensure effective identification and assistance of deserving individuals. Under the policy, transgender persons will be mandatorily included in provincial and national social protection programs, grants, health insurance schemes, skill development initiatives, and emergency response measures.
The Social Welfare Department has been designated as the focal department to oversee the inclusion and integration of transgender persons in all public services and government schemes. The policy also binds various provincial departments and commissions to take coordinated actions for their welfare.
Recommendations include integrating transgender persons into case management systems, protective shelters, and family mediation mechanisms. Police training courses will incorporate awareness modules on transgender rights, and transgender coordination desks will be established at police stations. Similarly, the Transport Department will introduce sensitization measures in certified training programs for drivers and conductors.
The policy further makes it mandatory for the Health, Education, and other relevant departments to implement measures supporting the rehabilitation and mainstream inclusion of transgender persons. The provincial government stated that the policy marks a significant step toward ensuring a dignified and secure environment for the transgender community.
