Indore Tragedy: 25 Transgenders Consume Phenyl; Admitted to Hospital

In a disturbing incident in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, approximately 25 members of the transgender community were hospitalized on Wednesday night after reportedly consuming phenyl. The incident occurred following a dispute with another group of transgenders in the Pandharinath area.

According to reports, the group consumed the poisonous substance to demand action against individuals, including the guru of another transgender group, alleging sexual assault on one of their members. The protestors initially gathered at the Pandharinath police station before moving to Jawahar Marg. They raised slogans against members of the opposing group, demanding strict action against them and two other individuals, Pankaj Jain and Akshay Kumayu, accusing them of harassment. It was alleged that the accused had threatened to implicate one of them in a false case and sexually abused her.

Following the incident, a large contingent of police officers was deployed to the scene. The police officers pacified the protestors and assured them that a thorough investigation would be conducted and appropriate action would be taken against the accused.

Dr. Basant Kumar Ningwal, the superintendent-in-charge of Maharaja Yashwantrao Hospital (MYH), confirmed the admission of approximately 25 individuals from the transgender community to the hospital. The location where the phenyl-like substance was consumed is being identified, and authorities are in the process of recording statements to ascertain the exact circumstances that led to this drastic step.

DCP (Zone-4) Anand Kaladagi and other officers visited the hospital to inquire about the condition of those who consumed the substance. While initial reports suggest that those who consumed the phenyl are in stable condition and are undergoing treatment, further details regarding their health are awaited.

This incident highlights the vulnerabilities and challenges faced by the transgender community, including issues of harassment, discrimination, and lack of legal recourse. This is not the first time MYH has been in the news; in September 2025, the hospital faced protests over alleged negligence in connection with newborn deaths.

The police have registered a case and are investigating the matter. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses and statements are recorded. The incident has brought to the forefront the need for greater sensitivity and protection for marginalized communities and highlights the importance of addressing their grievances promptly and effectively.