New Delhi, Union Women and Child Development (WCD) Minister, Smriti Irani, dismissed the notion of considering menstruation as a “handicap,” asserting that it does not warrant a specific policy for “paid leave.” Responding to a question in Rajya Sabha regarding the menstrual hygiene policy in the country, Irani emphasized that as a natural part of women’s life journey, menstruation should not be a basis for denying equal opportunities.
Last week, Irani had informed the Lok Sabha that there is currently “no proposal under consideration of the government to make provision for paid menstrual leave mandatory for all workplaces.”
In a written response submitted on Wednesday, Irani acknowledged the challenges faced by a small proportion of women suffering from severe dysmenorrhea or similar complaints. However, she underscored the societal taboos surrounding menstruation, leading to restrictions on mobility, freedom, and normal activities for menstruating individuals.
The draft Menstrual Hygiene Policy, released by the government in October, advocated for leave provisions for menstruating individuals in workplaces. It highlighted the importance of flexible working arrangements to accommodate specific needs during menstruation.
Addressing concerns raised by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) member Manoj Kumar Jha about potential risks associated with sanitary napkins, Irani emphasized their availability at affordable prices through Jan Aushadi Kendra. She assured that there have been no complaints about the quality of these sanitary napkins.
Regarding the disposal of sanitary products, Irani mentioned national and state protocols initiated by the Jal Shakti ministry since 2014.
In her written response, Irani detailed various government schemes promoting menstrual hygiene, including the Scheme for Promotion of Menstrual Hygiene and National Guidelines on Menstrual Hygiene Management under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
