In a landmark ruling that prioritizes menstrual hygiene, the Supreme Court of India has directed all government and private schools across the nation to provide free sanitary pads to girl students from classes 6 to 12. This decision came on Friday following an intensive hearing on a public interest litigation aimed at ensuring safe and dignified access to menstrual products in educational institutions.
The court emphasized that this provision is not merely a facility but a fundamental right for every girl to study in a secure, clean, and respectful environment. Schools have been instructed to set up separate toilets for different genders with complete privacy measures. Special attention must be given to the needs of differently-abled students to make facilities accessible and inclusive.
Furthermore, biodegradable sanitary pads must be made available free of cost inside school toilets, dispensed either through vending machines or by designated responsible staff. This setup aims to eliminate any embarrassment or hesitation among students during their periods.
In addition, every school is required to establish a ‘Menstrual Hygiene Management Corner’ equipped with essential supplies and educational materials. These corners will empower girls with knowledge and resources to manage their hygiene confidently.
The apex court has given all states and union territories three months to submit detailed compliance reports outlining implementation steps. It has also urged the central government to formulate a uniform national policy to standardize these measures nationwide.
The petition, filed by social activist Jaya Thakur from Madhya Pradesh, highlighted how lack of access to sanitary products disrupts girls’ education. During proceedings, the court asked states to share details of their existing schemes and funding for menstrual hygiene with the center.
This progressive order is expected to significantly reduce school dropouts among adolescent girls and promote gender equality in education. As implementation unfolds, it sets a strong precedent for menstrual health rights in India.