Outrage in Haryana: MDU Rohtak Sanitation Workers Forced to Prove Menstruation
A shocking incident at Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) in Rohtak, Haryana, has sparked outrage after four female sanitation workers were allegedly forced by their male supervisors to prove that they were menstruating. The disturbing episode took place on October 26, coinciding with a three-day visit by Haryana Governor Asim Kumar Ghosh to the university campus.
According to reports, a few sanitation workers had arrived late for duty that day. When questioned by their supervisors — identified as Vinod Kumar and Vitender Kumar — the women explained that they were delayed due to “women’s illness,” referring to menstruation. Instead of accepting their explanation, the supervisors allegedly accused them of lying and demanded proof.
The victims claim that one of the supervisors instructed a woman to remove her clothes, while another was ordered to check the sanitary pads of her colleagues. In a deeply humiliating act, the accused reportedly photographed the sanitary pads as so-called “evidence.”
Protests Erupt on Campus
Outraged by the incident, the women began protesting, drawing the attention of students and other staff members who soon joined in demanding action against the supervisors. The campus quickly became the centre of protest, with slogans calling for justice and accountability.
University officials, including Registrar Dr Krishnakant Gupta and Vice-Chancellor Prof Rajveer Singh, rushed to the scene and met the victims to hear their grievances. Both accused supervisors were immediately suspended and ordered to remain in Rohtak until the inquiry is complete. Police later detained them for questioning.
Women’s Commission Takes Cognisance
The Haryana State Commission for Women has taken suo motu cognisance of the case. Chairperson Renu Bhatia strongly condemned the act, stating, “There can be nothing more outrageous than asking a woman to prove her menstrual cycle.” She confirmed that the commission has sought a detailed report from the Superintendent of Police, Rohtak, on the steps taken so far. The commission has also contacted the victims to ensure their safety and mental well-being.
University Promises Stringent Action
In an official statement, the university administration said the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness. Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against those found guilty after the inquiry. The Vice-Chancellor has also directed the internal grievance cell to review the university’s gender sensitivity policies to prevent such incidents in the future.
Public Reaction and Legal Implications
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from women’s rights activists and social organisations across the state. Legal experts say the alleged act could amount to sexual harassment and violation of the dignity of women under the Indian Penal Code. Many have urged the Haryana government to ensure that the case does not get diluted under administrative procedures.
The episode has reignited the conversation about gender sensitivity and workplace dignity for women, particularly those employed in vulnerable and low-income positions such as sanitation work. The outrage on campus reflects a broader public sentiment demanding accountability and respect for women’s rights.
According to reports, a few sanitation workers had arrived late for duty that day. When questioned by their supervisors — identified as Vinod Kumar and Vitender Kumar — the women explained that they were delayed due to “women’s illness,” referring to menstruation. Instead of accepting their explanation, the supervisors allegedly accused them of lying and demanded proof.
The victims claim that one of the supervisors instructed a woman to remove her clothes, while another was ordered to check the sanitary pads of her colleagues. In a deeply humiliating act, the accused reportedly photographed the sanitary pads as so-called “evidence.”
Protests Erupt on Campus
Outraged by the incident, the women began protesting, drawing the attention of students and other staff members who soon joined in demanding action against the supervisors. The campus quickly became the centre of protest, with slogans calling for justice and accountability.
University officials, including Registrar Dr Krishnakant Gupta and Vice-Chancellor Prof Rajveer Singh, rushed to the scene and met the victims to hear their grievances. Both accused supervisors were immediately suspended and ordered to remain in Rohtak until the inquiry is complete. Police later detained them for questioning.
Women’s Commission Takes Cognisance
The Haryana State Commission for Women has taken suo motu cognisance of the case. Chairperson Renu Bhatia strongly condemned the act, stating, “There can be nothing more outrageous than asking a woman to prove her menstrual cycle.” She confirmed that the commission has sought a detailed report from the Superintendent of Police, Rohtak, on the steps taken so far. The commission has also contacted the victims to ensure their safety and mental well-being.
University Promises Stringent Action
In an official statement, the university administration said the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness. Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken against those found guilty after the inquiry. The Vice-Chancellor has also directed the internal grievance cell to review the university’s gender sensitivity policies to prevent such incidents in the future.
Public Reaction and Legal Implications
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from women’s rights activists and social organisations across the state. Legal experts say the alleged act could amount to sexual harassment and violation of the dignity of women under the Indian Penal Code. Many have urged the Haryana government to ensure that the case does not get diluted under administrative procedures.
The episode has reignited the conversation about gender sensitivity and workplace dignity for women, particularly those employed in vulnerable and low-income positions such as sanitation work. The outrage on campus reflects a broader public sentiment demanding accountability and respect for women’s rights.
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