SC orders free biodegradable sanitary pads for schoolgirls across India

The Supreme Court on Friday directed all states and Union Territories to ensure that girl students in both government and private schools are provided free biodegradable sanitary pads, holding that menstrual health is an integral part of the fundamental right to life guaranteed under the Constitution, according to reports.

The court reportedly observed that the right to menstrual health is part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution, and private schools failing to comply with the direction could face de-recognition.

The court also instructed states and Union Territories to ensure that all schools have separate toilets for male and female students. In addition, the court mandated that all schools, whether government-run or privately managed, must provide toilets that are accessible to students with disabilities.

The directions were reportedly issued while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Jaya Thakur on December 10, 2024. The petition sought nationwide implementation of the Union government’s ‘Menstrual Hygiene Policy for school-going girls’ in government and government-aided schools, covering adolescent students from Classes 6 to 12.