NOW PAKISTAN JAILS COUPLE

In a scenario reminiscent of the recent Malawi incident, two men have been arrested for allegedly attempting to get married, reports CNN.

Malik Muhammad Iqbal (42) and Kashif (19), known in the community as Rani, have been jailed as they await trial on charges of having “carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal”.

Rani, who reportedly indentifies as a woman and a eunuch, has insisted that she and Malik Iqbal are friends, not lovers and that they were simply celebrating her birthday.

Malik Iqbal, who said that he has two wives, also denied in court that they intended to get married.

Police, however, are adamant that the two were attempting to get married and arrested 43 guests at the May 24 party. They also say that they have photos and a wedding dress to prove their case.

“This is a psychological disease when men are attracted to men and not attracted to women,” said Peshawar police Chief Shoukat Ali.

Pakistan has a population of up to 500,000 eunuchs across the country who are often mocked and shunned by others.

A judge recently ordered the government to recognise this community under the law as a third gender.

If convicted, the two could face up to 10 years in prison.