Supreme Court’s Landmark Verdict: Free Sanitary Pads Mandatory in Schools; Non-Compliant Schools to Lose Recognition

Published on: 30 Jan 2026 at 06:26 PM

Published by: Gill Bikram

Supreme Court’s Landmark Verdict: Free Sanitary Pads Mandatory in Schools; Non-Compliant Schools to Lose Recognition

India’s apex court has delivered a historic and far-reaching verdict in favor of millions of girl students across the country. On Friday (January 30), the Supreme Court issued strict orders to all states and Union Territories, mandating that they provide free sanitary pads to girls studying in both government and private schools. The court clarified that menstrual health is an inseparable part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.

Right to Dignified Life and Education
The bench comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan stated while pronouncing the verdict that the right to life does not merely mean existing, but living with dignity, health, and equality. The court acknowledged that lack of sanitation facilities and sanitary pads often forces girls to drop out of school or remain absent, which is a direct violation of their right to education. Becoming emotional, the court remarked, “If a girl cannot attend school due to menstruation, it is not her fault, but the failure of the system.”

Stern Warning to Schools and Governments
The Supreme Court warned private schools that if they fail to provide these facilities to students, their recognition will be immediately canceled. In addition, the court directed that every school must ensure separate toilets for girls and boys, along with special facilities for children with disabilities. Holding governments accountable, the court emphasized that this policy must be strictly implemented nationwide.

Privacy and Societal Message
Through its verdict, the court has sent a profound message to society that the silence and stigma surrounding menstruation must be broken. This decision came on a public interest petition filed by Jaya Thakur, which demanded the implementation of a menstrual hygiene policy for girls from classes 6 to 12. The court stated that this verdict is for all girls, teachers, and parents who face difficulties due to lack of resources.