Women in Indian prisons denied menstrual products despite rules

The United Nations rules on the treatment of women prisoners, known as the Bangkok Rules, state that prisons must have the facilities and materials to meet women's specific hygiene needs. These include free sanitary towels and a consistent supply of water.

Despite this, period poverty and hygiene in prisons remain a problem in many countries, including India. According to a 2018 report, some prisons in India reportedly charge for sanitary napkins or only provide a set monthly number regardless of need. As a result, women are forced to use unsanitary materials such as cloth, pieces of old mattresses, and newspapers.

The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative, or CHRI, report found that compliance with international and national standards varies by state and prison. Some prisons have adequate resources, while others require women to purchase pads from the canteen or rely on family members who visit them. Women resort to using clothes and rags in prisons where they were not provided with sanitary pads, posing a serious threat to their menstrual hygiene. The report also highlighted a general lack of awareness of women's rights and entitlements in prison.