PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The Supreme Court’s latest directive mandating stricter safety measures in schools is set to have a direct impact on Dehradun’s government and private schools. The apex court has made it mandatory for schools to ensure availability of sanitary napkins, separate toilets for boys and girls and a regular supply of water and soap. Menstrual hygiene is part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution, SC had asserted in its ruling. Notably, the directions had been issued by a bench of Justice J B Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan while hearing a petition filed by Jaya Thakur. The court had observed that the lack of menstrual hygiene facilities affects girls’ dignity, privacy and education and linked the issue to Articles 14, 21 and 21A of the Constitution, along with provisions of the Right to Education Act.
Following the order, schools in Dehradun have started reviewing and revamping safety and hygiene arrangements. The principal of a government high school, Nidhika Gurung said that her school is checking safety measures for girls. “In line with the apex court’s order, we are arranging CCTV coverage, availability of sanitary pads near girls’ toilets, arrangement of separate toilets for girls and boys and sanitary napkins and soap near girls’ toilets,” she said, adding that the SC order would be implemented in toto in her school.
Speaking on the same issue, the principal of a government girls’ school in Dehradun, Saimara Deoli said that the sanitary pads were already being provided and a space near the toilets has been designated for easy access.
Students in Dehradun have lauded the SC directive and welcomed the availability of sanitary napkins for their use. A government school student, Nandini Kishor said that the order would help improve safety and basic facilities for them. “We sometimes forget to carry pads during our menstrual period and in case of stains, we cannot go out. This is quite embarrassing for us and the SC has stepped in to spare us this embarrassment,” she said.
Importantly, the SC has given private schools three months to comply, failing which recognition may be cancelled. State governments have also been asked to ensure implementation of the order in government schools and submit compliance reports.
