Controversy Surrounds Nomination Papers of Eunuch Nayab Ali; Almas Bobby Alleges Foreign Influence
ISLAMABAD, Jan 04: A dispute has arisen over the approval of the nomination papers for eunuch Nayab Ali, with Almas Bobby filing an appeal and asserting that marking "X" on identity cards is part of a foreign agenda, allegedly promoted by a foreign lobby.
Addressing the media outside the Islamabad High Court on Thursday, Almas Bobby expressed support for the Shariat court's decision, stating that they stand by the rejection of the "X card." Bobby argued that the specific seats designated for the upcoming election lack clarity regarding the representation of trans men and trans women. He mentioned a candidate, Muhammad Arsalan, urging support for him.
Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir, presiding over the Election Tribunal, issued a notice to involved parties regarding the appeal against Nayab Ali's approved nomination papers for the minority seat, requesting responses by Monday.
The petitioner's lawyer contended that Nayab Ali's documents are objectionable due to her transgender identity, as her identity card bears an "X" instead of specifying "male" or "female." The argument raised concerns about the eligibility of contesting elections without the specified gender designation.
During the court proceedings, the judge inquired about the petitioner's interaction with the Returning Officer, highlighting the need for completeness in the application and questioning whether objections were presented orally or in writing.
