Indore: The political rivalry within Indore’s transgender community has spiralled into an open and alarming conflict, mixing allegations of extortion, a suicide bid, and police inaction.
Financial Spat to Suicide Attempt
The unrest began with a dispute over money sharing between two powerful faction leaders, Sapna Haji and Seema Guru, following a convention. Amid escalating police complaints at multiple stations, the crisis deepened when 24 trans persons collectively attempted suicide by consuming phenyl, protesting alleged police bias and the failure to arrest key suspects.
Media Blackmail Scandal
Adding a shocking layer, a video emerged from Seema Guru’s camp showing an alleged ‘fake journalist’ with a member of the community. Police subsequently booked the journalist, Pankaj Jain, and an associate for rape, blackmail, and threats. Despite the severity of the charges, Jain and his accomplice remain absconding.
Mahamandaleshwar Alleges Threats
Following the collective suicide attempt, police arrested Sapna Haji. However, the controversy gained a political edge when Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi of the Kinnar Akhada publicly alleged that she was receiving threats from Sapna Haji’s faction, demanding immediate and strict police action. The entire episode severely questions the city’s administration and the integrity of the investigation.
