NALSAR University shows how meaningful action can be taken for LGBTQI+ inclusivity: By listening to students 

News: NALSAR University of Law in Hyderabad released a draft Policy on Inclusive Education for Gender and Sexual Minorities.

The University will allow one of the floors in a hostel to be a gender-neutral space for students who self-identify as LGBTQI+.  

In 2018, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences had established a gender-neutral space in its girls’ hostel. In addition, the Ashoka University inaugurated gender-neutral washrooms in its premises.  

Background 

The Supreme Court judgment in the NALSA v Union of India Case (2014) recognised transgender people as the “third gender” 

Consequently, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued a circular in 2015 to the vice-chancellors of all universities that “Transgender -friendly infrastructure like washrooms, restrooms etc” be built. 

What is stated in the draft policy? 

It will ensure that students get “reasonable accommodation in alignment with their preferred gender identity” 

It also states that name and pronoun changes shall be available to anyone.  

In addition, there will be a self-attested declaration for recognition of gender identity and sexual orientation in the university.  

What is the significance of the move?

This move can lead to changes that will create inclusive, safe public spaces for gender and sexual minorities.  

The move shows the importance of participatory approach in place of the top-bottom approach. For example, it was the active engagement with the student community at NALSAR University that led to this draft Policy. 

NALSAR University has set a good example which can be replicated in other educational institutions across India. 

Source: The post is based on an article “NALSAR University shows how meaningful action can be taken for LGBTQI+ inclusivity: by listening to students” published in the Indian Express on 29th March 2022.