• Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety Shazia Marri announced the inclusion of transgenders under BISP

•  Trans individuals must be registered with NADRA

• They can get Rs. 7,000 per quarter from the programme

The Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety Shazia Marri made a significant announcement Sunday, claiming that the transgender community in Sindh was being formally included under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).

While speaking to the individuals and guests present on occasion at the Arts Council, Marri added that the members of the transgender community belong to the poor segment of society and are facing economic and societal challenges in society.

The event started off with an emotional documentary based on how transgenders are discriminated against in Pakistan.

Ms Marri, who is also the chairperson of BISP, said: “This is the beginning of pluralistic Pakistan. A marginalised group is given rights in the income support program for the first time in the history of Pakistan.”

Furthermore, she added that the community was ignored by our society and that transgenders have now avoided coming forward before authorities due to society’s harsh behaviour towards them.

A program named after a visionary leader is truly “Benazir”! @bisp continues to support women of poorest of the poor families of 🇵🇰
Benazir Kafaalat has now included the Trans community to the program, a marginalised community that needs our support in every way. #BISPforAll pic.twitter.com/EQ7ARnVF1D

— Shazia Atta Marri (@ShaziaAttaMarri) January 29, 2023

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Benazir Kafaalat Now Includes Transgenders

While talking about the program launched under BISP, Marri added that it is very important for the member of the trans community to be registered with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).

After the trans individual has registered themselves with the authority, they should visit a BISP centre for further processes. Moreover, Marri shared that the trans people registered under the program can receive Rs7,000 quarterly financial assistance.

She further stated that 3 trans people have already registered themselves and added that a total of 900,000 families across the country were being financially supported by the BISP. Marri handed over Rs. 7,000 to the individuals during the event.

The Struggle for Transgender Rights in Pakistan

Transgender individuals are often discriminated against due to societal norms and beliefs that view gender as binary and fixed, and that do not accept those who do not fit into this traditional understanding.

Prejudices, misunderstandings, and a lack of education about the transgender community also contribute to discrimination. This can result in the denial of basic rights, such as employment, housing, and access to healthcare, as well as physical and emotional abuse.

Breaking down these barriers and promoting acceptance and understanding of the transgender community is necessary for creating a more equal and just society.

In Pakistan, transgender individuals face legal and social discrimination. They have limited rights and access to healthcare, education, and employment. The country does not have laws that protect transgender people from discrimination or hate crimes. However, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has granted them the right to self-identify as a third gender and to have this recognized on official documents.

What is your take on the initiative? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

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