Right to Menstrual Health received constitutional recognition on Friday as the Supreme Court ruled that menstrual health and hygiene form an integral part of the right to life and dignity under Article 21. The court stressed that dignity must exist in real conditions, not just as an abstract idea.
The bench observed that lack of access to menstrual hygiene management causes exclusion, humiliation, and avoidable suffering. Therefore, it directed educational institutions to ensure proper facilities and awareness. The ruling strengthens the framework for inclusive health rights and gender justice across India.
Right to Menstrual Health also places responsibility on governments and institutions to remove structural barriers. Moreover, the court underlined that access to hygiene products and facilities remains essential for equality in education.
Meanwhile, political developments unfolded in Maharashtra. NCP working president Praful Patel said there is no opposition to Sunetra Pawar becoming the leader of the NCP legislature wing. However, he clarified that the party will seek consent from the Pawar family before taking a final decision.
Patel added that the immediate priority involves filling the vacant posts of Deputy Chief Minister and NCP legislature party leader, both held by Ajit Pawar before his death. He further said the party does not view organisational leadership as an urgent issue at present.
Together, the court ruling and political statements marked a significant day for both constitutional rights and Maharashtra’s political landscape.
