In a major win for girls’ education and menstrual health, the Supreme Court has taken a historic step to ensure dignity and care during menstruation. It directed government and private schools to ensure free sanitary pads and proper, gender-separate toilets, warning of strict action, including loss of recognition, for violations.
The Court observed that lack of access to sanitary pads and proper toilets not only affects girls’ health but also their education and self-esteem. It ruled that all government and private schools must provide free, biodegradable sanitary pads to students, making them easily accessible through dispensers in toilets or other designated areas.
The judgment also emphasised the need for clean, separate toilets for girls, with running water and soap. Toilets must be private, well-maintained, and accessible to students with disabilities. Schools are encouraged to set up Menstrual Hygiene corners, stocked with essentials like spare uniforms, disposal bags, and sanitary products, so girls have support during menstruation.
The Supreme Court warned that schools failing to comply could face strict action, including losing recognition under the Right to Education Act. State governments will also be responsible for ensuring that these facilities are available in all schools.
By linking menstrual health to the fundamental right to life, the Supreme Court has made it clear that dignity, education, and health for girls are non-negotiable. The challenge now is ensuring these guidelines reach every school across India so that all girls can attend school with confidence and pride, no matter their background.
This ruling is expected to create safer, more supportive school environments and help girls feel respected and cared for during one of the most natural aspects of their lives.
