Rajasthan HC Demands Action on Lack of Hygienic Public Toilets for Women
Last Updated on December 5, 2024 by Athi Venkatesh
The Rajasthan High Court has highlighted the lack of hygienic public toilets for women, taking suo motu cognizance of the issue. Justice Anoop Kumar Dhand criticized the poor state of existing facilities, calling them inadequate and substandard compared to the needs of women. The Court emphasized that this neglect leads to serious health problems, including uro-gynecological issues, as many women avoid drinking water or delay urination due to the unhygienic conditions.
A local Hindi news report revealed that working women limit their water intake to avoid using unsanitary toilets. The Court observed that women face this issue disproportionately due to biological needs, especially during menstruation, and noted that public toilet facilities for men are almost double compared to those for women.
The Court referred to international and constitutional principles, including Article 21, which ensures the right to live with dignity, and Article 47, which mandates the State to improve public health. Justice Dhand stressed that safe and clean toilets are essential for women’s dignity and health, urging the government to fulfill its duty under the Rajasthan Municipalities Act, 2009.
The Court issued show cause notices to the relevant ministries and departments of the Central and State Governments, demanding reports on the steps being taken to resolve this issue. It treated the matter as a Public Interest Litigation titled Suo Motu: In the Matter of Dignity, Respect & Honour Girls and Women.
The bench emphasized that addressing this issue is crucial for creating a progressive society. The matter is scheduled for its next hearing on January 7, 2025.
