In a first-of-its-kind at educational institutes in India, the National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR, Hyderabad) has introduced initiatives like creating gender-neutral rooms and washrooms, among many other ideas being implemented in an endeavour to make the University campus more inclusive for the gender non-conforming.

Nalsar officials said most Indian universities don't have gender-neutral spaces such as hostels and washrooms. As part of its policy, the law school would have gender-neutral hostels, leading the way for inclusive campuses for the LGBTQ+ community, of which there are a handful on campus. It also has a Nalsar Queer Collective.

What started in the latter months of 2021 as discussions among the student community from the NALSAR Queer Collective and the Student Bar Council at the University on the need for gender-neutral safe spaces, culminated into the formation of an interim policy. This policy was created to safeguard the interests of students who do not conform to the set standards of the social construct.

"We encourage self-identification wherein students can identify themselves without being recognised through the assigned genders. We would acknowledge the declaration by the students to respect their privacy and autonomy and would also keep it secure from their parents and guardians if need be," said Faizan Mustafa, vice-chancellor, Nalsar.

Apart from assigning an inclusive space, the Hyderabad-based college wants to sensitise its teaching and non-teaching staff about the issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Many students formed the 'NALSAR Queer Collective' within the campus to raise awareness and visibility.

A non-discrimination policy exists where students will not face prejudice for their identity and personal choices. Along with that, courses on gender and sexuality will be taught to students. With this, the premier law institute is heading towards becoming the country's first fully gender-neutral campus. Like the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), NALSAR is also spearheading an inclusive revolution that will encourage universities around the country to recognise the LGBTQIA+ community and give them the space for them to flourish.

Image source: TOI