New Delhi. The Supreme Court, while giving an important and far-reaching decision on Friday, has directed all the states and union territories of the country to provide biodegradable sanitary pads free of cost to the girl students studying in government and private schools. The apex court clearly said that menstrual health is an integral part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Governments will also be accountable-
The court said in its order that if the governments fail to arrange toilets and free sanitary pads for girl students in schools, they will also be held accountable for the same. This comment was made regarding the rights to health and dignity of school girls.
The policy will be applicable from class 6 to 12-
Justice J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan’s bench has directed to implement the ‘Menstrual Hygiene Policy for School Going Girls’ of the Central Government across the country. This order will be applicable to girl students from class 6 to 12, who are studying in government and government-aided schools.
Strict warning to private schools-
The Supreme Court also gave a strong message to private schools, saying that if they do not make arrangements for separate toilets and free sanitary pads for girls and boys, their recognition can be cancelled. The court said in clear words that compromise on menstrual health is not acceptable.
Toilets suitable for disabled people are also mandatory.
Along with this, the court directed all the states and union territories to provide toilets suitable for disabled students in schools. Besides, it should also be ensured that all schools have separate toilets for male and female students.
Decision came on PIL-
It is noteworthy that this decision has come on the PIL filed by Jaya Thakur. The petition demanded that the menstrual hygiene policy of the central government be implemented across the country. The Supreme Court had reserved the decision in this matter for December 10, 2024, which has now been made public.
This decision not only strengthens the health and dignity of girl students, but is also considered a big step towards gender equality and sensitivity in the education system.
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