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In a disturbing incident that took place at Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) in Haryana’s Rohtak, four sanitation workers were allegedly forced by male supervisors to prove that they were menstruating. The incident took place on October 26 when Haryana Governor Asim Kumar Ghosh was on a three visit to the campus. On the same day, a few female sanitation workers arrived late for duty. When questioned by their supervisors — identified as Vinod Kumar and Vitender Kumar — the women explained they had been delayed due to “women’s illness”, referring to menstruation. However, instead of accepting their explanation, the supervisors allegedly accused the workers of lying and demanded proof. According to the victims, the men instructed one of the women to remove her clothes and even ordered another female worker to check their sanitary pads. In some instances, the supervisors allegedly took photos of the sanitary pads as “evidence.” Protest Breaks Out On Campus Humiliated and enraged by the incident, the women began shouting in protest. Soon the students and other sanitation workers gathered at the scene, joined them demanding strict action against the accused supervisors. Following the incident, Registrar Dr Krishnakant Gupta and Vice-Chancellor Prof Rajveer Singh reached the spot and spoke with the women. The administration immediately suspended both supervisors and ordered that they remain in Rohtak until the inquiry concludes. Police were later called and took the accused for questioning. Women’s Commission Steps In The Haryana Women’s Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the case. Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia condemned the act in strong words, saying, “There can be nothing more outrageous than asking a woman to prove her menstrual cycle.” She confirmed that the commission has written to the Superintendent of Police, Rohtak, seeking a detailed report on the action taken so far. The commission has also reached out to the affected women to ensure their safety and well-being. University Assures Strict Action University authorities have assured that the incident will be investigated thoroughly and that those found guilty will face serious consequences.
