Menstrual Inequality: Eighth Grader Barred from Classroom, Inquiry Launched After Examinations Forced Outside Due to Period

Chennai, April 10, 2023: A disturbing incident at a private matriculation school in Coimbatore district has sparked widespread outrage after a Class 8 student was forced to write her annual examination seated outside the classroom due to her menstrual cycle.

According to sources, the student had requested special seating arrangements from the school administration, citing concerns over comfort and hygiene during her menstrual cycle. However, on Monday, she was instead made to sit on the floor outside the classroom, prompting her mother to capture a video of the ordeal. The video, which has since gone viral on social media, shows the student writing her exam on the steps outside the classroom, accompanied by her mother’s narration.

The incident occurred at a school in Senguttaipalayam, near Pollachi, where the student had been scheduled to take two exams this week. Her parents had made the request for a separate desk inside the classroom to ensure her comfort during her menstrual cycle. Despite this, the school administration failed to accommodate their request, resulting in the student being forced to sit outside the classroom.

The student’s mother had contacted the class teacher on April 6 to request special seating arrangements, but was told to speak to the principal. The next day, the mother met the principal and reiterated her request, only to be ignored. On Wednesday, when the student returned to school for another exam, she was again made to sit outside the classroom, sparking outrage among her family and the community.

An inquiry into the incident is underway, with the Chief Educational Officer conducting a thorough investigation. Director of Matriculation Schools, A. Palanisamy, has confirmed that an explanation has been sought from the school management and appropriate action will be taken after the report is received. Assistant Superintendent of Police Shristi Singh, who conducted a preliminary inquiry, detailed the sequence of events and confirmed that the girl’s mother had requested special seating arrangements, but was ignored.

The school’s correspondent has suspended the principal under Section 17 of the Right to Education Act, 2009, which prohibits physical or mental harassment of children. While no formal police complaint has been lodged yet, officials have assured a fair investigation once it is received. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for immediate action to be taken against the school administration.

The incident highlights the long-standing issue of period shaming and taboos surrounding menstruation, which often results in women and girls being marginalized and stigmatized. As the world grapples with the challenges of menstrual equity, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater awareness, acceptance, and support for individuals experiencing their menstrual cycles.

Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/04/10/tn-class-8-girl-forced-to-write-exam-outside-classroom-due-to-menstrual-cycle-inquiry-ordered/
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Publish Date: 2025-04-10 22:04:00