Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: In a landmark social directive, the Supreme Court on Friday ordered that all schools across urban and rural India must provide separate toilets for girls. The court emphasized that schools failing to comply, especially private institutions, could face cancellation of their recognition.
Sanitary Pads and Dignified Facilities Now Mandatory
The apex court also mandated that sanitary pads be made available to all girl students, asserting that lack of such facilities violates Article 14 of the Constitution, which ensures the right to equality. Without access to menstrual hygiene, girls are unable to participate equally in academics and extracurriculars.
Right to Dignity Under Article 21 Upheld
The bench highlighted that dignified menstrual care is integral to Article 21, the right to life with dignity. Denying girls this basic necessity affects their privacy, dignity, and well-being.
Central Policy Already in Draft Stage
Earlier, the Centre had informed the court that a national menstrual hygiene policy was being drafted and shared with stakeholders for feedback, and it would be finalized within four weeks.
The Petition That Sparked the Change
This directive stems from a public interest petition filed by social activist Jaya Thakur, demanding free sanitary pads and separate toilets for girls in government and residential schools from Class 6 to Class 12.
