Menstrual Discrimination among Dalit Safai Karmachari Communities

Abstract:

Along with menstruation an inevitable natural phenomenon, menstrual discrimination formed and passed from generation to generation since the emergence of menstruation in human history. Menstrual discrimination found all around the globe with various forms, names and magnitude though remained as ignored and sidelined. Manual scavengers who are associated with Safai Karmachari Andolan in New Delhi also are not exceptional for this. They are not only practicing discriminatory menstrual practices at an individual and family level but also imposed menstrual discrimination at their schools and workplace. They also have been practicing for the sake of get rid of from sin. While practicing various forms of menstrual discrimination, their human rights particularly right to dignity, right to equality, right to freedom and right non-discrimination violates multiple levels at once. Therefore, the stakeholders including government need to work on dignified menstruation where all menstruators could live equal, just society.