Menstrual leave for schoolgirls: Science body Parishath urges Kerala govt to rethink proposal

A leading science organisation in Kerala has urged the government to slow down its proposal to grant schoolgirls three days of menstrual leave every month. The Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishath (KSSP) warned that while the idea might seem helpful at first glance, it could lead to unexpected problems for students and their families.

The group argues that a deep, scientific study is needed before any final decision is made. They are concerned that treating a natural biological process as a reason for leave might send the wrong message. For years, activists have worked to teach people that menstruation is not a disease. The KSSP fears that a formal policy might accidentally support old-fashioned views that girls are "weaker" or physically limited.

Concerns over academic loss and family burdens

One of the biggest worries raised is the impact on education. If a girl takes three days off every month, she could lose up to 30 days of school in a single year. While the government has suggested "catch-up" classes on weekends, the KSSP questions whether schools are actually ready to handle this. They worry that if these extra lessons are not delivered well, girls might fall behind their male classmates.

There is also a human side to the story that often gets missed. In many families where both parents work, a child staying home can create a crisis. The KSSP pointed out that the responsibility for caring for the girl would likely fall on the mother, potentially affecting her own job and financial stability. This could be especially hard for low-income families or those with more than one daughter.

Privacy risks and better alternatives

The menstrual leave debate has earlier seen strong opinions from other public figures. Former police chief and BJP councillor R Sreelekha and IUML's Noorbina Rasheed have both raised concerns over privacy. They worry that having to record "menstrual leave" in school registers would make a girl’s private health information visible to teachers and staff. 

Instead of just giving time off, the KSSP suggests a different approach. They want the government to focus on making schools more comfortable for everyone. This includes providing clean toilets with running water, easy access to sanitary napkins, proper disposal bins, and quiet rest rooms.

The government has maintained that the leave is meant for those who suffer from severe physical or mental pain during their periods. It clarified that the leave would be optional and is intended to empower students, not hold them back. For now, the science group insists that the best path forward is more education and better facilities, rather than simply sending girls home.