Supreme Court Seeks Clarification on Menstrual Hygiene Policy for Schools
The Supreme Court of India has requested the government to clarify issues related to menstrual hygiene in schools before implementing a new policy. Justices JB Pardiwala and Pankaj Mithal have asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati to address concerns raised by a petitioner and report back by December 3.
The government has developed a National Policy on Menstrual Hygiene for School-Going Girls, which outlines its vision, objectives, and responsibilities. However, ASG Bhati acknowledged that more work is needed for effective implementation. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will coordinate with states to ensure comprehensive action plans.
The petitioner, social activist Jaya Thakur, represented by advocates Varinder Kumar Sharma and Varun Thakur, argued that the policy does not address the reliefs sought in the petition. They highlighted inconsistencies in the data used, noting that the reported percentages of sanitary product usage exceed 100%.
The petitioner emphasized the lack of facilities in places like District Damoh, Madhya Pradesh, where schools lack basic amenities like sanitary pads and cleaning staff. The plea calls for free sanitary pads for girls in classes 6 to 12, separate toilets for girls, and a three-stage awareness program on menstrual health.
The petition stresses that managing menstruation hygienically is crucial for the dignity and well-being of women, linking it to the right to health under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. It argues that inadequate menstrual hygiene management affects girls’ education and health, urging the provision of necessary facilities and an enabling environment.
Doubts Revealed
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest court in India. It makes important decisions on legal issues and ensures that laws are followed correctly.
Menstrual Hygiene -: Menstrual hygiene refers to the practices and products used by girls and women to manage their periods safely and comfortably. It includes using sanitary pads, clean toilets, and having access to water.
Policy -: A policy is a plan or set of rules made by the government or an organization to guide decisions and achieve specific goals. In this case, it’s about improving menstrual hygiene in schools.
Petitioner -: A petitioner is a person who brings a case to court, asking for a legal decision. Here, Jaya Thakur is the petitioner who wants better menstrual hygiene facilities in schools.
Sanitary Pads -: Sanitary pads are absorbent items used by girls and women during their periods to stay clean and comfortable. They are an important part of menstrual hygiene.
Separate Toilets -: Separate toilets mean having different toilets for boys and girls. This is important for privacy and hygiene, especially for girls during their periods.
Awareness Programs -: Awareness programs are activities or campaigns designed to educate people about a particular issue. In this case, they would teach students about menstrual hygiene and how to manage it properly.
