SC ruling affirms menstrual health as a rights issue, says TGF India

Welcoming a landmark judgment of the Supreme Court, transgender and gender rights organisation TGF India has said the ruling marks a decisive shift in how menstrual health is viewed in law and public policy.

In its order, the Supreme Court underscored that menstruation is not a matter limited to women alone and must be recognised as a health and dignity issue affecting all menstruators, including transgender men and non binary persons. The court stressed that access to menstrual hygiene products, sanitation facilities, healthcare and accurate information is integral to the right to health, equality and dignity under the Constitution.

Reacting to the ruling, TGF India said the judgment breaks long standing gender stereotypes that have excluded large sections of society from menstrual health discourse. The organisation noted that by explicitly acknowledging transgender and gender diverse persons, the court has widened the scope of state responsibility and inclusivity in health programmes.

TGF India also pointed out that the judgment places an obligation on governments to ensure menstrual health management through policy measures, budgetary support and ground level implementation. This includes access to affordable sanitary products, safe disposal mechanisms, clean toilets and sensitisation of healthcare providers.

Calling the ruling a milestone for public health and human rights, the organisation urged central and state governments to translate the court’s directions into actionable policies without delay. It also appealed for consultation with community groups to ensure that menstrual health initiatives reflect lived realities and reach the most marginalised.

The Supreme Court’s intervention, TGF India said, has the potential to reset the national conversation on menstruation from stigma and silence to rights, health and inclusion, provided it is followed up with sustained political and administrative commitment.