The decision to provide menstrual leave to girl students in higher education institutions across the state is being appreciated. However, there are many more features that they want on campuses in times of war.
“We have sanitary napkin vending machines on most campuses, even in schools. But many of them are out of order and hence do not serve their purpose”, said Archana Anil Kumar, a CMA student from Kozhikode. She added that the girls needed to go outside the campus most of the time if they needed napkins. There is a need and they have to pay a very high price for what can be available for Rs 5 through vending machines.
Nashwa PP, a student of fine arts in Thiruvananthapuram, felt that the unavailability of proper toilets was a major hindrance for girls, especially in a co-educational institution. “Our campus is huge and the women’s toilet is in one corner of it. We would greatly appreciate it if we had some clean toilets at more accessible distances”, he said.
Meanwhile, the stigma associated with periods is almost non-existent on campuses these days, as male students are also aware of the complications faced by their female counterparts during periods. “I have many male friends who ask me if my mood swings are due to periods. Recent discussions on this issue in the mainstream media have helped create awareness among boys”, said Archana.
On the other hand, girls are still victims of taboos related to periods in their homes. “I have many friends who are not allowed to share food with other family members or even to fetch water from the well during periods. The government should also think of an awareness campaign against these taboos,” said Drishna K., a graduate student from Ernakulam, adding that many girls are still comfortable using the word ‘period’ or ‘menstruation’ No. “I wonder how many girls will use their rightful leave,” she said.
Nashwa, on the other hand, feels that girls these days are not shy about talking about their menstrual problems and use menstrual leave in a jiffy. However, Archana fears that the holiday might be misused by girls to bunk classes.