सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने स्कूलों में मासिक धर्म स्वास्थ्य को अभिन्न अधिकार बताया

The Supreme Court has affirmed menstrual health as an integral right for school-going girls. Schools must establish 'MHM corners' with necessary materials like spare innerwear, uniforms, and disposable bags. The court also emphasized educating male teachers and students about menstruation to prevent harassment.

The court referenced Section 19 of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, emphasizing the need for separate washrooms and barrier-free access in government-run schools. The ruling also connects to broader interpretations of fundamental rights, including the right to dignity and autonomy.

'Period poverty' refers to the lack of access to sanitary products and adequate menstrual hygiene facilities. This ruling addresses it by mandating schools to provide 'MHM corners' equipped with necessary materials, ensuring girls have access to sanitary products and facilities.

Educating male teachers and students is crucial to break the stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation. It helps prevent harassment and promotes a more supportive and understanding environment for girls in schools.

Pros include improved menstrual hygiene, reduced absenteeism among girls, and a more inclusive school environment. Cons might include the financial burden on schools, logistical challenges in maintaining the corners, and potential resistance from some schools or communities.

Reforms needed include allocating sufficient funds for MHM corners, training teachers on menstrual health, creating awareness programs for students and parents, and establishing monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance by schools.

This ruling ensures that school-going girls have access to basic menstrual hygiene facilities, promoting their health, dignity, and right to education. It also contributes to breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation, leading to a more equitable society.

Menstrual health is in the news because the Supreme Court has declared it an integral right for school-going girls, mandating facilities in schools.

The Union government's 'Mahila Shakti Kendra' scheme aims to raise awareness about MHM. Several states have also launched initiatives to provide free or subsidized sanitary products to girls and women.

While not explicitly stated in the provided data, the ruling can be linked to Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) through its emphasis on dignity and bodily autonomy. Denying adequate menstrual health facilities infringes upon a girl's right to live with dignity.