• SC expanded Article 21 (Right to Life and Dignity) to explicitly include menstrual health and hygiene
  • Directives: All states must ensure functional, gender-segregated toilets, safe water, and hygienic disposal mechanisms in schools
  • Non-compliance linked to punitive actions like de-recognition of schools
  • Addresses crisis: 20-23 million girls drop out annually due to lack of sanitation facilities post-puberty

UPSC Angle

  • GS2: Polity, fundamental rights, SC judgments
  • GS1: Society, gender issues

📌 Facts Corner — Knowledgepedia

SC Menstrual Health Ruling:

  • Constitutional basis: Article 21 (Right to Life and Dignity)
  • Girls dropping out post-puberty: 20-23 million/year
  • Mandate: gender-segregated toilets, safe water, disposal in schools
  • Penalty for non-compliance: de-recognition