A Class 10 student in Nashik, Maharashtra, faced an alarming situation on March 13 when she was reportedly prohibited from leaving the examination hall during her menstrual period. The incident unfolded during her Science-II board examination at Abhinav Adarsh High School, where she began her menstrual period with approximately one hour remaining in the exam.

Request for Restroom Access and Sanitary Pads Denied

The student mentioned that she requested permission from the supervising staff to use the restroom. However, the female supervisor reportedly declined her request, citing examination rules that prevent students from exiting the hall prior to the examination’s conclusion. After the completion of the exam, the student approached another female staff member, seeking a sanitary napkin, but was informed that no sanitary pads were available at the centre.

Ubuntu Foundation Raises Concerns

This incident was brought to light after the Ubuntu Foundation lodged a formal complaint with the Nashik division of the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education. In response, the Board issued a show-cause notice to the examination centre, seeking clarification from the responsible authorities regarding the matter.

Focus on Corrective Measures Rather Than Punishment

Vinod Gaikwad from the Ubuntu Foundation articulated that the primary aim of the organization was not punitive but aimed at corrective actions. He emphasized that the incident could have inflicted both physical and mental distress on the student, potentially impacting her examination performance. Gaikwad expressed that the goal was to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Board’s Response to the Violation of Examination Protocols

The Maharashtra State Board, in its notice, underscored that denying a student the opportunity to address natural needs during an examination reflects insensitivity and may breach the rights of the examinee. The Board noted that such practices might hinder a student’s focus and performance during the examination. It highlighted existing guidelines that permit students to leave the examination hall for natural calls, provided they are accompanied by authorized personnel, such as a constable.

Potential Disciplinary Actions Considered

The Board remarked that the supervisor may have failed to adhere to established protocols. Their notice requested a justification for why disciplinary actions should not be undertaken against both the centre director and the involved supervisor. Officials reiterated that preparatory orientation sessions are held for centre heads before each examination cycle to ensure clarity on the prescribed rules and procedures that must be strictly followed.

Concerns Over Preparedness of Examination Centres

This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the ability of examination centres to adequately manage the fundamental needs of students. There is a growing call for increased awareness among staff at examination venues to ensure that basic student requirements are addressed efficiently during board examinations.

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