Right to Menstrual Health Forms Part of Right to Life Under Article 21: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court ruled that the right to menstrual health and access to menstrual hygiene products is included within the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.

The case arose from a plea seeking free sanitary pads for girl students and separate toilet facilities in schools.

The Court observed that lack of access to menstrual hygiene measures results in stigma, exclusion and undermines the dignity and education of girl children. It held that menstrual hygiene is closely linked to the right to live with dignity and privacy.

The Court issued directions for gender-segregated toilets, free sanitary napkins, safe disposal systems and awareness initiatives in schools, and stated that compliance will be monitored.

[Dr. Jaya Thakur v. Government of India]