📰 “Our Collective Failure”: Raghav Chadha Raises Menstrual Stigma Issue in Rajya Sabha

In a powerful and emotive speech in the Rajya Sabha, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha brought national attention to the persistent issue of menstrual stigma and lack of basic hygiene facilities for girls across India.

🏛️ Strong Statement in Parliament

Addressing the Upper House, Chadha said,“If a girl misses school because there are no sanitary pads, no water and no privacy, it is not her personal problem. It is our collective failure.”

His remarks struck a chord, highlighting how menstrual health is not just a personal or family matter, but a societal responsibility.

🚸 Impact on Education

Chadha pointed out that thousands of girls in India are forced to skip school during their menstrual cycles due to:

• Lack of access to affordable sanitary products

• Inadequate sanitation facilities in schools

• Absence of private and safe spaces

He emphasized that this leads to irregular attendance and even school dropouts, especially in rural and underprivileged areas.

🚫 Breaking the Silence on Stigma

The AAP leader also spoke about the deep-rooted social taboos and stigma surrounding menstruation. He noted that many girls and women still face:

• Restrictions on daily activities

• Shame and embarrassment in discussing menstrual health

• Limited awareness about hygiene practices

🧴 Call for Policy Action

Raghav Chadha urged the government to take concrete steps, including:

• Ensuring free or subsidized sanitary pads in schools and public institutions

• Improving toilet infrastructure with water and privacy

• Launching nationwide awareness campaigns to normalize conversations around menstruation

🤝 Collective Responsibility

He stressed that addressing menstrual hygiene requires a joint effort from government, schools, families, and society at large. The issue, he said, is directly linked to gender equality, dignity, and public health.

📢 Key Highlights:

• Menstrual stigma raised as a national concern in Parliament

• Lack of hygiene facilities affecting girls’ education

• Strong call for better infrastructure and policy support

• Urges society to treat menstrual health as a shared responsibility

Chadha’s speech has reignited conversations around menstrual equity and women’s rights, with many calling for urgent reforms to ensure that no girl’s education is hindered due to a lack of basic facilities.