In a progressive move, the Punjab government in Pakistan has directed the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) to replace the term “shemale” with “transgender” in official documents and advertisements. This decision was made following a petition filed by Dr. Ammar Younas, a human rights lawyer, who highlighted the derogatory nature of the term and its inappropriate usage.
Dr. Younas emphasized the importance of using respectful and inclusive language for the transgender community. His efforts led to the issuance of an official notification from the Punjab government’s Services & General Administration Department (S&GAD), instructing all departments to adopt the updated terminology in compliance with the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018.
The decision has been widely praised by transgender activists and human rights advocates across the country. Prominent figures, including Ibn Abdur Rehman, director of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, and activist Neeli Rana, applauded Dr. Younas for his effective advocacy in championing the rights of the transgender community.
This step marks another milestone in Pakistan’s journey toward greater recognition and rights for transgender individuals. Pakistan was one of the first countries to legally recognize a third gender in 2009 and continues to lead the way with initiatives such as the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018, which ensures equal rights and protections for the community.
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