Haryana university male supervisors force female staff to prove menstruation, photograph pads as evidence

In a deeply disturbing incident at Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) in Rohtak, four female sanitation workers were allegedly compelled by male supervisors to prove they were menstruating, triggering widespread outrage and swift administrative action.

The event, which occurred on October 26, unfolded after the women arrived late for their duties. According to a report by News18, when the workers explained their tardiness was due to a “women’s illness” - a common euphemism for menstruation - their supervisors, identified as Vinod Kumar and Vitender Kumar, allegedly accused them of dishonesty.

The situation escalated rapidly from a simple query into an act of profound humiliation. The supervisors are accused of demanding tangible proof of the women’s condition. One woman was reportedly instructed to remove her clothes, while another was ordered to have a female co-worker inspect her sanitary pad. In a further violation, the men allegedly took photographs of the sanitary pads to serve as “evidence.”

The workers, humiliated and enraged, began shouting in protest. Their cries drew the attention of students and fellow staff, who quickly gathered at the scene in a show of solidarity, demanding stringent action against the accused men.

The university administration responded promptly. Registrar Dr Krishnakant Gupta and Vice-Chancellor Prof Rajveer Singh arrived at the location and spoke directly with the affected women. In a decisive move, both supervisors were immediately suspended.

The administration has mandated that the accused remain in Rohtak until a full inquiry is concluded. Police were called to the campus and subsequently took the supervisors in for questioning.

The case has now attracted the attention of the Haryana Women’s Commission, which has taken suo motu cognisance. The commission’s chairperson, Renu Bhatia, condemned the act in unequivocal terms.

“There can be nothing more outrageous than asking a woman to prove her menstrual cycle,” Bhatia said, as quoted by News18.

She confirmed that the commission has formally written to the Superintendent of Police in Rohtak, seeking a comprehensive report on the action taken. The body has also initiated contact with the victims to ensure their safety and well-being throughout the investigative process.

University authorities have assured that the incident will be investigated thoroughly and that those found guilty will face serious consequences.