SUPREME COURT BAR ASSOCIATION CONDEMNS PERIOD CHECKS ON WOMEN WORKERS

Introduction: A shocking incident In a deeply disturbing incident from Haryana, two women sanitation workers were allegedly forced to prove that they were menstruating by showing photos as evidence. This humiliating demand has sparked outrage across the nation. The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) strongly condemned the act, calling it a grave violation of women’s dignity and human rights. Such treatment is not only illegal but also against the very spirit of equality and respect that our Constitution stands for. The case has reignited a larger conversation about how women, especially those in lower-income and unorganized sectors, are treated at workplaces.

The incident that shocked the nation According to reports, the two women workers were employed by a local municipal body and had taken leave during their menstrual periods. However, when they returned, their supervisor allegedly demanded proof that they were indeed on their period. Shockingly, they were asked to show photos as evidence. The incident quickly gained national attention and triggered outrage among social activists, women’s rights groups, and legal experts. Forcing any woman to disclose such private details is both degrading and unlawful. Periods are a natural biological process, not something that should ever be questioned, doubted, or made into a reason for harassment.

The Supreme Court Bar Association’s strong response The Supreme Court Bar Association issued a statement condemning the act in the strongest possible terms. The association said that forcing women to prove menstruation is a serious violation of their dignity, privacy, and bodily autonomy. It emphasized that such behavior reflects deep-rooted gender bias and ignorance about women’s health. The SCBA further called for strict action against the officials responsible, demanding accountability from the concerned department. Lawyers and advocates across the country echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the incident is not just a moral issue but also a legal one, as it clearly violates the right to privacy and the right to equality guaranteed under the Constitution.

Violation of human rights and dignity This case represents a clear breach of human rights. Every individual has the right to dignity, privacy, and respect at the workplace. When women are subjected to such intrusive and humiliating checks, it not only hurts them emotionally but also discourages them from asserting their rights in the future. The International Labour Organization and India’s own labor laws protect workers from such abuse. Unfortunately, women in sanitation work, domestic help, and other informal sectors often face discrimination and are denied basic respect. Forcing a woman to “prove” her period shows how far society still needs to go to ensure true equality and understanding of women’s health.

The silence around menstruation One of the main reasons such incidents still happen is the persistent stigma and silence surrounding menstruation in society. In many parts of India, periods are still treated as shameful or impure. This mindset leads to ignorance, discrimination, and exclusion. Many women, especially in rural or economically weaker sections, are not given proper menstrual hygiene facilities or education. They are often made to feel guilty for a natural process. The Haryana incident is an extreme example of how lack of awareness and empathy can lead to cruel and degrading treatment. Education about menstruation must begin early and must involve both boys and girls so that future generations grow up with understanding and respect.

Legal implications and accountability From a legal point of view, this case may fall under the violation of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, including dignity and privacy. It may also be a case under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013. Forcing a woman to disclose or prove something related to her body is intrusive and falls under harassment. The officials who demanded such proof could face disciplinary and even criminal action. The SCBA’s statement urges the authorities to ensure that justice is served and that such behavior is never repeated in any government or private office.

Impact on women workers For women sanitation workers, life is already full of challenges. They often work in unsafe and unsanitary conditions for very low pay. On top of this, when they face humiliation and disrespect, it affects their morale and self-worth. Such acts discourage women from working or reporting abuse. The mental trauma of being forced to prove a private biological function can stay with a person for years. These women deserve empathy, understanding, and better working conditions, not humiliation or doubt.

Need for menstrual awareness and sensitivity training There is an urgent need to include menstrual awareness and gender sensitivity training in all workplaces, especially in government departments and local bodies. Supervisors and officers must be taught to respect privacy and handle leave related to menstruation with sensitivity. Menstruation should never be treated as a reason to question a woman’s honesty or ability to work. Some countries and organizations have even introduced menstrual leave policies, recognizing that some women experience pain or discomfort during their periods. India needs to not only introduce such measures but also create a supportive environment where women can speak openly about their needs without fear or shame.

A call for reform and empathy The Haryana incident is a wake-up call for the entire country. It shows that even in 2025, ignorance and prejudice about menstruation remain widespread. The government must take strict action against those responsible and ensure that all employees are educated about workplace ethics and gender sensitivity. But beyond punishment, there must be reform. Every institution must have clear policies protecting women’s privacy and dignity. Society must move from stigma to understanding, from silence to conversation, and from humiliation to respect.

Conclusion: Dignity above all The Supreme Court Bar Association’s condemnation is a powerful reminder that women’s dignity cannot be compromised. Forcing women to prove menstruation is not only cruel but also unconstitutional. It reveals deep flaws in how society views women and their bodies. Change will come only when everyone, from policymakers to citizens, understands that menstruation is a normal and healthy part of life. Respect for women must be non-negotiable. Every woman, regardless of her job or background, deserves to be treated with honor, fairness, and compassion. The outrage following this incident should not fade away with time. It must lead to real change, stronger protections, and a society that values the dignity of all its citizens equally.