Punjab Introduces “Tahafuz Darsgah” for Transgender Individuals

APP

Lahore: Provincial Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare, Khawaja Imran Nazir, and Provincial Minister for Specialized Health Care, Khawaja Salman Rafique, emphasized the importance of the newly established “Tahafuz Darsgah” for transgender individuals.

During their inspection of the facilities provided by Punjab Police in the “Tahafuz Darsgah,” the ministers stressed the need for creating a supportive environment for transgender individuals to ensure their meaningful participation in society and national development.

They discussed plans to establish separate wards in hospitals for transgender individuals and provide dignified employment opportunities to integrate them into the national mainstream, highlighting that supporting transgender individuals breaks societal barriers and transforms them into productive members of society.

Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir praised the establishment of “Tahafuz Darsgah” for transgender children, emphasizing its role in providing a secure environment and opportunities for a better life, noting that this initiative is the first of its kind in South Asia.

Meanwhile, Khawaja Salman Rafiq underscored the importance of “Tahafuz Darsgah” in meeting the educational needs of transgender children and providing them with shelter and security, especially for those rejected by their families.

The provincial ministers thoroughly examined the facilities, including classrooms, residential rooms, dining areas, and other amenities for transgender children.

They were accompanied by senior police officers, including SSP (Operations) Lahore Ali Raza and SSP (Gulberg) Shahrbanu Naqvi, who briefed them about the security arrangements for the “Tahafuz Darsgah” project.

The establishment of “Tahafuz Darsgah” signifies a significant step towards ensuring the rights and well-being of transgender individuals in Punjab, serving as an example for the region and beyond.