The Tripura Transgender Welfare Board has sought legal action against the in-laws of a trans woman, Ishani Das, alleging that she was subjected to physical and mental abuse after her gender identity became known to them.
According to members of the board, Ishani was harassed by her in-laws, who accused her of deceiving the family by allegedly concealing her biological identity. However, Ishani has refuted the claim, stating that she had disclosed her identity to her husband from the very beginning of their relationship.
Recounting the events, Ishani said she met her husband, Akash Das, through social media, and the two remained in a relationship for six years before marrying. “I had informed him about my biological identity at the outset. I did not hide anything,” she said.
Born as Nayan Das in Agartala, Ishani said she left her parental home after her family became aware of her sexual orientation. She later moved to Mumbai, where she worked at a beauty parlour and adopted the name Ishani following her transition. Her parents continue to reside at their ancestral home in Camperbazar, Agartala, while her husband is a resident of Mohanpur in West Tripura district.
She claimed she was initially reluctant to marry, fearing social opposition. However, she alleged that Akash insisted and threatened self-harm if she refused. After returning to Agartala, the marriage was solemnised, but tensions arose soon after.
Ishani alleged that once her in-laws learned about her gender identity, she was confined, verbally abused, physically assaulted, and forcibly tonsured. Videos and photographs of the incident reportedly circulated on social media.
Following the incident, members of the welfare board intervened and brought her to the West Agartala Women Police Station. The board has demanded a fair investigation and strict action against those involved.
