A Critical Discourse on the Transgender Act and the Role of Social Media in this Issue

Abstract

This article presents a critical discourse analysis of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act (2018). The study illuminates the discursive strategies employed by the system to manipulate public perception and foster societal conflict. It specifically examines the role of social media in shaping discourse surrounding the transgender act. The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2018 was enacted by the Pakistani Parliament on May 11, 2018. Authorities assert that this legislation is a significant milestone, recognizing transgender individuals as equal citizens of Pakistan. However, the discourse surrounding the act extends beyond its legal provisions to encompass how it has been framed and communicated. This study holds importance in shaping Pakistan's cultural and political landscape, particularly in understanding how it generates ambiguity on social media platforms. Employing qualitative methods, Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) is utilized to scrutinize the Transgender Act, with the research grounded in Fairclough's model. The passage of the act elicited both criticism and praise from various sectors of Pakistani society. Critics, referencing Fairclough's model, argue that the act may lead to an increase in homosexuality and same-sex marriages in Pakistan. This analysis sheds light on emerging societal issues stemming from lexical ambiguity within the legislation, providing insight into the discursive strategies employed by authorities to sow discord within society.