Pakistan’s First Gay Club
In the conservative city of Abbottabad, local authorities have detained a man who attempted to establish Pakistan’s first gay club, directing him to a mental hospital.
The man submitted an application to the local deputy commissioner, proposing the club as a resource for homosexual, bisexual, and heterosexual individuals in Abbottabad and across Pakistan.
His application emphasized that the club would strictly prohibit sexual activity on its premises, aiming to abide by laws such as Section 377 of Pakistan’s Penal Code, which criminalizes same-sex relations.
The deputy commissioner’s office acknowledged receiving the application, treating it like any other business proposal without bias or special consideration.
However, the leak of the application on social media triggered a strong backlash from residents and politicians in the conservative Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Leaders of Right-wing and conservative religious parties, including Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PATY) and Jamiat Ulema Islam (JUI), condemned the proposal, warning of severe consequences if the club were to be approved.
Amid mounting pressure, the man behind the club application was transferred to the Sarhad Hospital for psychiatric diseases in Peshawar on May 9.
Concerns for his safety grew among friends, who expressed frustration at being denied access to him and limited information about his condition.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in conservative societies like Pakistan, where cultural and religious norms often clash with efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity.
Despite the setback, advocates continue to push for greater acceptance and rights for marginalized communities in the country.
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