How Telangana HC Is Revolutionizing Period Positivity In Colleges?

In a remarkable move, the Telangana High Court has directed the state government to build sanitary napkin dispensing machines at all the junior colleges across Telangana. The decision, taken by Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Anil Kumar Jukanti, came in response to a news report-turned-PIL floored during the protests at Government Junior College in Saroornagar. 

What encouraged the 'Period Positivity' move?

According to reports, the court initially addressed the aforementioned college, but in the final judgement, it mandated the installation of the pad vending machine and sufficient toilets in every college. The court took the matter into its own hands after coming across a news report about the protest that addressed the issue of inadequate toilets in government junior colleges. Reportedly, there was only one toilet serving 700  girls in the college. 

Government's Lamentable Excuse

The state government pleaders cited changes in the government as the reason behind the delays in addressing critical issues like this. However, the court dismissed their pleas with utter dissatisfaction.

The court said, "Construction of toilets in government junior colleges has nothing to do with the change in government. This is not a policy decision. How much time will you take to construct toilets? Do you require 20 years to build a toilet?"

A Swift Call to Action 

Subsequently, the court has issued a three-month deadline to the government to build the vending machines. The PIL has been adjourned for three months, within which the government is expected to provide a fruitful response through its actions.

Responding to the court's directive, the government has allocated Rs 10.256 crore for the construction of toilets in 41 government junior colleges in Hyderabad, Rangareddy, and Medchal-Malkajgiri districts. Additionally, a substantial sum of Rs 27.55 crore has been earmarked for the construction of 599 toilet blocks in 300 government junior colleges across the state.

As the government moves forward with its allocated funds, it's not just about constructing toilets and installing machines; it's about fostering an environment where the dignity and rights of young girls are prioritized.