The treatment meted out to the transgender community in India is still far from being equal. It is easy to look away and ignore them when we see, but we sure as a mature community cannot deny their existence. Riya Isha, a transgender from Kerala saw the change herself, from bad to good. Currently a student of Government College in the state, she has a toilet exclusively for herself. Public Toilets for LGBTQ Community: Nagpur Becomes the First State in Maharashtra to Construct Them.

Riya Isha shifted to Malappuram, a district in Northern Kerala about two years ago. At first, she faced discrimination from the residents, but gradually she has brought out a change at least in her educational premise. Pursuing a course on economics from a government college, she has got an exclusive facility of a toilet for herself in just two weeks. Riya made that effort to demand one and the authorities listened to her concern. The move is a first in any of the colleges in the state. First Transgender Judge in Assam and Third in Indian Judiciary, Swati Bidhan Baruah Starts Work in Lok Adalat. 

Talking about what made her feel the need to get a separate facility she said to The News Minute, "There are students who come from orthodox backgrounds, who don't like us using the same toilets as them. Some girls even turned their backs on seeing me. But there are others in the college – including the authorities – who are extremely friendly and helpful." A strong advocate for the rights of transgenders Riya has been fighting taboos. She is ensuring with her presence in Malappuram that transgender can exist and be accepted well in the society.

Riya has graduated in fashion designing and has decided to pursue economics for her second graduation. She is aware of all the education rights. She said, "We have a two-seat reservation in all government colleges. My personal view is that we should study in government colleges only, and should have access to the benefits that the government provides us."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 28, 2018 12:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).