Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed authorities to initiate strict action after a shocking incident at a private school in Shahapur (Thane district), where minor schoolgirls were allegedly forced to undress for menstruation checks. The case has triggered widespread public outrage, political debate, and legal action.
The incident, which occurred earlier this week, involved students from classes 5 to 10. After bloodstains were discovered in a toilet, the school authorities reportedly assembled girls in a hall, projected images of the stains, and then questioned them about their menstrual status. Girls who denied menstruating were allegedly taken to a restroom where a female staffer inspected their private parts to verify their claims.
The matter was brought up in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, prompting State Minister Girish Mahajan to confirm that CM Fadnavis had personally intervened and demanded a full investigation. “The Chief Minister has instructed strict and immediate action. Such incidents cannot be tolerated,” Mahajan stated.
Following a formal complaint from a parent, police arrested the school principal and the woman attendant. A case has been registered against a total of eight individuals — including four teachers and two trustees — under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Parents of affected students staged a strong protest outside the school on Wednesday, demanding accountability. Videos of emotional parents condemning the incident have since gone viral on social media.
Child rights activists and legal experts have also condemned the act, calling it a gross violation of children’s dignity and bodily autonomy. There are growing calls for mental health support for the affected students and mandatory menstrual health sensitization in schools.
