In Indore, Madhya Pradesh, 24 transgender individuals attempted mass suicide on Wednesday night by drinking phenyl, a toxic cleaning chemical. They were rushed to Maharaja Yashwantrao Hospital, where most are now reported to be in stable condition.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Anand Kaladgi stated that police received a report of disturbances at a residence in the Nandlalpura area, where several transgender persons live. When authorities arrived, they found multiple individuals had consumed a poisonous substance. Emergency responders quickly transported them to the hospital for treatment.

Officials are investigating the motive behind the incident and plan to question those hospitalized once they recover enough to provide statements.

The event appears to be linked to an earlier case involving two men accused of raping and blackmailing a transgender person while posing as journalists. The suspects, identified as Akshay and Pankaj, allegedly demanded money and threatened to defame the victim in the media. Police have registered a case against them for rape, extortion, and other offenses.

Following the suicide attempt, members of the transgender community gathered outside the hospital, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused. During the protest, one individual reportedly poured kerosene on herself in an attempt to self-immolate, but police intervened in time to prevent it.

Additional DCP Rajesh Dandotiya confirmed that the accused had visited the Nandlalpura area in June, pretending to be journalists. They allegedly assaulted and threatened the victim, warning that they would defame her or file false legal complaints if she did not comply with their demands.

The two suspects have been charged under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, as well as for intimidation and coercion.