Delhi High Court Directs Government to Enhance Menstrual Hygiene Awareness in Schools
- ByAdmin --
- 29 May 2025 --
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The Delhi High Court has issued a directive to the Delhi government and municipal authorities to intensify efforts in promoting menstrual hygiene awareness among school students. This move underscores the judiciary's commitment to ensuring that adolescent girls receive adequate education and resources to manage menstruation safely and with dignity.
Background
- Public Interest Litigation:
The directive followed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocate Setu Niket, highlighting the challenges faced by adolescent girls due to inadequate menstrual hygiene education and resources in schools.
- Concerns Raised:
The PIL pointed out that a significant number of girls aged 10 to 14 drop out of school due to the lack of proper education on menstruation and the absence of necessary hygiene products.
Court's Observations and Directives
- Implementation of Awareness Programs:
The Court emphasized the need for regular interactive sessions every two weeks to educate students about menstrual hygiene, allowing them to clarify doubts and receive guidance from trained counselors.
- Provision of Sanitary Products:
Authorities were directed to ensure the availability of sanitary napkins to adolescent girls at subsidized rates, with the Delhi government's UDAAN scheme being one of the initiatives to provide such products.
- Teacher Training:
The Court noted that teachers in government schools had been trained on menstruation-related issues to foster a more informed and supportive environment for female students.
- Infrastructure Requirements:
The Court inquired about the status of separate toilets for girls in schools and the maintenance of these facilities to ensure privacy and hygiene.
Legal and Policy Framework
- Right to Education Act, 2009:
Mandates free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years, implicitly supporting the need for a conducive learning environment, which includes addressing menstrual hygiene.
- Menstrual Hygiene Scheme (UDAAN):
A scheme by the Delhi government aimed at providing sanitary napkins to adolescent girls at subsidized rates, promoting menstrual hygiene awareness.
- National Menstrual Hygiene Policy:
The Centre has formulated a policy to mainstream menstrual hygiene within the school system, aiming to change attitudes and behaviors among schoolgirls and overcome barriers due to low awareness
Significance of the Court's Directive
- Educational Continuity:
By addressing menstrual hygiene, the directive aims to reduce school dropouts among girls, ensuring they continue their education without interruption.
- Health and Hygiene:
Promoting awareness and providing necessary products contribute to better health outcomes for adolescent girls, reducing the risk of infections and other health issues.
- Gender Equality:
The initiative supports gender equality by ensuring that girls have the same opportunities to learn and participate in school activities without the stigma associated with menstruation.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Court's directive is a significant step towards ensuring that menstrual hygiene is adequately addressed in schools. By mandating awareness programs, provision of sanitary products, and proper infrastructure, the Court aims to create an environment where adolescent girls can manage menstruation with dignity, leading to improved educational outcomes and overall well-being.
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