SC: Menstrual health is a part of fundamental right to life (Orders free sanitary pads, separate toilets in all govt and private schools), Pg1

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court has declared that menstrual health is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution.
• All States and UTs are directed to implement Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) measures in all government and private schools within three months.
• MHM measures include gender-segregated toilets and free sanitary napkins.
• Non-compliance may lead to de-recognition of private schools and state government accountability.

Detailed Insights:

• The ruling emphasizes that lack of MHM measures subjects menstruating girls to stigma, stereotyping, and humiliation, violating their right to live with dignity.
• Absence of MHM disrupts girls' education, leading to absenteeism, learning gaps, lower academic performance, and increased dropout rates.
• Schools must provide functional, gender-segregated toilets with water connectivity and oxo-biodegradable sanitary napkins compliant with ASTM D-6954 standards.
• Schools should establish MHM corners equipped with spare innerwear, uniforms, disposable bags, and safe disposal mechanisms for sanitary napkins, adhering to solid waste management rules.
• NCERT and SCERT are directed to incorporate gender-responsive curricula on menstruation, puberty, and related health concerns to break stigma.
• NCPCR or SCPCR will oversee the implementation of these directions.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Article 21: Guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, interpreted here to include menstrual health.
• Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM): Comprehensive measures ensuring access to menstrual products, sanitation, and education.
• Right to Education Act: Mandates schools to provide basic infrastructure and facilities, including separate toilets for boys and girls.