Coimbatore School Faces Backlash After Girl on Her Period Forced to Write Exam Outside Classroom

A private school in Coimbatore sparked public outrage after a Class 8 girl had to sit outside her classroom to write her exam because she was on her menstrual cycle. The incident, which her mother recorded in a video, quickly went viral on social media, prompting an investigation.

The student, who attends a matriculation school in Senguttaipalayam near Pollachi, found herself forced to sit on the steps outside the classroom during her exams on April 7 and April 9. Despite her parents requesting special seating arrangements for her comfort, the school did not accommodate their request.

A Mother’s Request Ignored

The girl’s mother called the class teacher on April 6, asking for a separate desk inside the classroom due to her daughter’s period. The teacher referred her to the school principal. The following day, the mother met the principal and reiterated her request, explaining the need for a clean and comfortable space to avoid any discomfort or infection. However, the principal directed the girl to sit outside during the exam.

On April 7, after sitting on the stone steps for hours, the girl returned home complaining of leg pain. She missed her revision classes on April 8, but when she returned to school on April 9, the situation repeated itself. A relative noticed her sitting outside and informed the parents, prompting the mother to rush to the school. She filmed the incident, which showed her daughter still writing the exam on the steps.

Investigation Underway

The video, which quickly gained traction online, prompted local authorities to take action. A. Palanisamy, Director of Matriculation Schools, confirmed that the Chief Educational Officer had launched an inquiry into the matter. The District Educational Officer has also asked the school management for an explanation.

Assistant Superintendent of Police, Shristi Singh, conducted a preliminary inquiry and confirmed that no formal complaint had been filed at the time. However, she noted the severity of the situation and assured that authorities would proceed with a fair investigation once a complaint was received.

School Principal Suspended, Legal Action Taken

In response to the public outcry, the school suspended the principal under Section 17 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, which prohibits physical and mental harassment of children.

On April 10, the girl’s father filed a formal complaint with the Negamam Police Station, leading to a case being registered against the principal, office assistant Shanthi. The complaint also accused the staff of verbally insulting the girl’s mother on caste grounds when she questioned the treatment.

A Call for Change

The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the stigma surrounding menstruation in India, particularly in schools. Menstrual health activists and child rights organizations have criticized the school for not accommodating a basic need, such as providing a safe and private space for a girl on her period. They emphasized that menstruation is a natural process, and no girl should face discrimination for it.

Activists have also called for greater awareness among school staff about the importance of addressing menstruation with respect and dignity. Many argue that this incident should serve as a wake-up call for all educational institutions to create environments that are supportive of girls’ health needs.

Moving Forward

As the investigation continues, many are urging stronger policies to prevent similar incidents. Schools must prioritize the well-being of students and create a more inclusive and respectful environment for girls. This case highlights the need for educational institutions to break the taboo surrounding menstruation and adopt practices that protect the dignity of all students.