A small victory for Pakistan's transgenders

Mark Magnier in the Los Angeles Times:

Hijra have long been stigmatized and subject to discrimination and abuse in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, with its rigorously defined roles for men and women. But in a landmark decision in December, the Supreme Court ordered that they be protected from police harassment, be eligible for a separate gender category on ID cards and be recognized under inheritance laws.

"We need proper rights," said Noor, a 21-year-old member of Nanni's household. "No one listens to our concerns."

Although nascent legal status is a first step, social acceptance is likely to take far longer. Noor and the others said police officers and residents often beat, harass, rob and sexually abuse them.

More here.