SC Reviews Menstrual Hygiene Compliance, Flags Gaps in School Facilities

NewsBharati    03-Sep-2026 17:01:02 PM
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New Delhi, September 03: The Supreme Court on Tuesday reviewed compliance with its directions on menstrual hygiene management in schools, questioning the Centre and States over continuing gaps in access to sanitary napkins, gender-segregated toilets, washing facilities and sanitation infrastructure.
 
SC
Senior Advocate Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the Centre, told the Bench that States and Union Territories had begun providing sanitary napkins in schools, though complete coverage had not yet been achieved. The Centre, she said, was supporting the States through funding under the National Health Mission and education schemes.

The Bench stressed the need to prioritise rural and tribal areas, where students may face financial and infrastructure-related barriers. It also sought clarity on the availability and prescribed standards of biodegradable sanitary napkins.
 
 
 
On sanitation infrastructure, the Court was informed that 77% of schools had gender-segregated toilets with washing facilities, while 11% were under construction and 12% remained without the required facilities. The Bench directed that deficiencies be identified State- and UT-wise and addressed on a “mission-mode” basis.

The Court also questioned the absence of sanitation workers in some schools, asking how toilets could be properly maintained without cleaning staff. It directed a ground-level assessment, beginning with Delhi and neighbouring States.
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The Bench also took note of concerns from Madhya Pradesh over the alleged diversion of menstrual-hygiene funds directly to students instead of supplying sanitary napkins and sought supporting material.

The matter will be heard next on September 29, when an updated compliance report is expected to be placed before the Court.
menstrual hygiene Madhya Pradesh Delhi