Madurai Bench of Madras HC orders NTA to supply sanitary pads at NEET centers nationwide, addressing a 19-year-old petitioner’s medical needs.
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Chennai: Recently, The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has directed the National Testing Agency (NTA) to ensure the availability of sanitary pads near toilets at National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) examination centers across India. This decision comes in response to a petition filed by a 19-year-old seeking accommodations due to a medical condition.
The court’s directive emphasizes the necessity for adequate toilet facilities with water amenities at every NEET examination center.
“Each examination center is required to provide adequate toilet facilities with running water and maintain a sufficient supply of sanitary products nearby for unprepared female candidates. Girls should have unrestricted access to restrooms as needed.”
– the court stated in its order.
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This ruling follows the plea of a 19-year-old petitioner who suffers from a medical condition affecting her urinary control. In her petition, she requested accommodations such as access to sanitary pads and the ability to change as needed during exam hours. Expressing concern over potential discrimination, the court highlighted the importance of upholding constitutional rights.
“Denying the facilities requested by the petitioner would prevent her from taking the examination, constituting discrimination prohibited by Article 14 of the Constitution of India.”
-the court affirmed.
Acknowledging the petitioner’s concerns, the NTA conceded to the requests made in the petition. Additionally, the court directed the NTA to conduct advance inspections of toilets at exam centers to streamline the process and avoid unnecessary frisking of candidates. Furthermore, the testing agency is mandated to raise awareness about these provisions to alleviate stress among female candidates during the exam.
NEET, being a highly competitive examination, serves as the gateway for admission to medical colleges across India. The Madras High Court’s order to ensure adequate toilet and sanitary facilities at NEET centers has been widely welcomed by aspirants. Many view this decision as a positive step towards inclusivity and accessibility in education.
Disha Vijayvargiya, a 19-year-old NEET aspirant, expressed relief, stating-
“I’ve been preparing for NEET this year and have consistently worried about managing my menstrual cycle during the exam, as I was told by peers that we couldn’t bring sanitary napkins. However, this judgment has eased my concerns.”
Expressing similar thoughts, 21-year-old Dolly Gupta stressed the importance of this ruling in easing the pressure on students. Gupta shared an experience involving her friend during last year’s exam, underscoring the difficulties female candidates frequently confront during the test.
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However, amidst the positive reception, some concerns have been raised regarding the possibility of unfair means during washroom breaks.
Ashwini Sharma, a 20-year-old NEET aspirant, voiced her apprehensions, stating-
“I hope they will ensure proper monitoring when students need to use the restroom, or put in place measures to prevent cheating during the exam.”
The Madras High Court’s order underscores the importance of ensuring equitable opportunities for all candidates, particularly those with specific needs or medical conditions. By addressing issues of accessibility and accommodation, this ruling sets a precedent for inclusivity in high-stakes examinations like NEET.
As the NEET exam approaches on May 5.
