Ritambhara R.
Monday, 2 February 2026
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has declared the right to dignified menstrual health as an essential component of the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Constitution. This ruling, issued in case number 2025 INSC 123, establishes a significant legal precedent for the treatment of menstrual health within India's legal system.
The bench, consisting of Justices D.Y. Chandrachud, Sanjay Kishan Kaul, and Indira Banerjee, underscored the critical role of menstrual health in advancing gender equality and safeguarding individual dignity. Justice Chandrachud, authoring the majority opinion, asserted, "Menstruation transcends a mere biological function; it is a societal issue intertwined with various rights. Denying women dignified menstrual health equates to denying them their right to life."
The Court's decision arose from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that spotlighted the inadequate access to sanitary products and hygiene facilities across the nation. The petitioners contended that such deficiencies infringe upon women's constitutional rights and impede their participation in public life.
The judgment expands the interpretation of the Right to Life to encompass health and dignity, invoking Article 21 of the Constitution. This interpretation is consistent with the principles of international treaties to which India is a signatory, emphasizing the necessity of menstrual hygiene and health.
This ruling is poised to influence the formulation of public health policies, particularly those concerning women's health. Legal experts suggest it may become a benchmark for future litigation on health rights and gender equality, highlighting the State's duty to ensure adequate menstrual health facilities.
Arriving at a pivotal moment in the discourse on women's health and rights in India, this decision's implications extend beyond the judiciary, potentially affecting legislation and public policy aimed at improving women's health and dignity.
With the Supreme Court's affirmation of menstrual health as a fundamental right, stakeholders are now tasked with implementing policies that reflect this judgment. This decision sets a powerful precedent that could reshape the conversation on women's rights in India for years to come.
What You Need to Know
Supreme Court recognizes dignified menstrual health as integral to Right to Life under Article 21, case 2025 INSC 123.
This ruling directly affects women, girls, policymakers, healthcare providers, and manufacturers of sanitary products nationwide.
Establishes precedent linking menstrual health to constitutional rights, potentially influencing future health rights and gender equality litigation.
Legal professionals should advocate for policies ensuring access to menstrual products and hygiene facilities, aligning with Article 21.
Supreme Court ruling integrates menstrual health into Right to Life, shaping future health and gender equality policies.
Join 50,000+ legal professionals
Sign in to join the conversation
Loading comments...
India's Supreme Court scrutinizes amendments to the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, emphasizing the need for clarity on personal data definitions.
Court warns states against cash schemes before polls, citing economic risks.
Supreme Court stays Tripura High Court's fixed pay order for TET teachers, impacting educational employment policies.
India's trade landscape shifts as Supreme Court nullifies U.S. tariffs, urging legal and diplomatic action.
