The provincial government’s decision came on Tuesday after Ammar Younas in an email petition last month raised objection against the usage of the word “shemale” in job advertisements posted on PPSC’s official website, citing the derogatory pornographic connotation associated with the word.
“Finally, the Punjab government agreed to change the disrespectful word “shemale” to “transgender” as a result of my petition. It appeared to be an oversight on the part of the Punjab government due to the lack of awareness and sensitization on such issues,” Ammar told CGTN Digital.
“Upholding and respecting the dignity of every person should be our first and the most important objective as a human rights lawyer. I consider it a humble achievement that the government recognized its mistake after six years. Now, all departments of Punjab government will replace the controversial connotation in all official documents,” the young lawer said.
The decision has been hailed by the transgender community and rights activist in Pakistan as a progressive intervention. Ibn Abdur Rehman, director of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan congratulated Ammar for his “excellent advocacy” in the matter while prominent transgender activist Neeli Rana praised the young lawyer for supporting the community’s cause through this timely petition.
