A police official in Bahawalpur was suspended following a protest by members of the transgender community against alleged harassment and intimidation by members of law enforcement on Wednesday.

The protesters alleged that police in Ahmadpur Sharqia intimidate and threaten members of the transgender community who perform at wedding events.

The police were accused of threatening to register false cases against members of the transgender community, and of arresting them if they did not submit to their threats.

The protesters also alleged that members of the police force mistreated them in public, and appealed to the regional police officer and district police officer (DPO) for help.

Consequently, DPO Dr Akhtar Abbas suspended Sub-Inspector Raees Ahmed for irresponsible behaviour and promised protection to the transgender community.

Opinion

Editorial

Kashmir unresolved
Updated 30 Sep, 2026

Kashmir unresolved

The just solution lies in India addressing the issue through a trilateral dialogue involving the legitimate representatives of the Kashmiri people and Pakistan.
Water shortage
30 Sep, 2026

Water shortage

THAT the country is entering the Rabi season with an anticipated water shortage of nearly 25pc, the lowest carryover...
Young hearts
30 Sep, 2026

Young hearts

THE observance may have passed, but the message of World Heart Day should not fade with it. The occasion is a useful...
Terror and politics
Updated 29 Sep, 2026

Terror and politics

There is an urgent need to tone down the rhetoric and tackle terrorism as a collective challenge for both the affected provinces and the federation.
Watching the glaciers
29 Sep, 2026

Watching the glaciers

THE latest signs from Pakistan’s mountains are worrying. Suparco says the number of unfrozen glacial lakes it...
Dangerous agenda
29 Sep, 2026

Dangerous agenda

AS the world remains fixated on the US-Iran conflict, elsewhere in the Middle East, Israel is consolidating its grip...