Top News

What to do if a school refuses to provide sanitary pads to girls? Where can you file a complaint? What are the rules?
Siddhi Jain | January 31, 2026 5:15 PM CST

Sanitary Pads Mandatory in Schools: Parents and students can file a complaint if sanitary pads are not provided in schools. Learn where you can file a complaint.

Sanitary Pads Mandatory in Schools:  Getting your period unexpectedly at school can be a difficult situation for many girls. Keeping this in mind, the Supreme Court has given a major ruling. Now, providing sanitary pads in schools is not an extra facility, but a right for girls. The court has clearly stated that menstrual health cannot be ignored. The Supreme Court has directed states and education departments to ensure the availability of sanitary pads for girls in every school.

If any school shirks this responsibility or shows negligence, strict action can be taken against it. If necessary, steps can be taken to even revoke the school's recognition. In such a situation, it is important for parents and students to know where they can file a complaint if they face this problem.

Where can you file a complaint?

If a school is not providing sanitary pads to girls or is delaying the process, a complaint can first be filed at the district level. A written complaint can be submitted to the District Education Officer or District Program Officer. The complaint should include the school's name, date, the situation, and any available evidence. If the matter is not addressed at the local level, the case can be taken up with the State Education Department or the Women and Child Development Department.

In addition, a complaint can also be sent to the State Child Rights Protection Commission or the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights. This matter is now related to a right, so it can also be raised on platforms like the Human Rights Commission and the Women's Commission. Filing a written complaint helps in further action.

What rules have been made?

In its decision, the Supreme Court has stated that schools should have separate and clean toilets for girls, sanitary pads should be easily available, and there should be arrangements for the safe disposal of used pads. Instructions have been issued to set up menstrual hygiene corners in many schools, so that girls can access necessary supplies without hesitation. This rule applies equally to both government and private schools. If an inspection reveals that a school is neglecting these guidelines, the education department may take action.


READ NEXT
Cancel OK