NSUI protests at Delhi University over menstrual leave demand

Members of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) on Aug 13 held a protest at Delhi University’s Arts Faculty demanding 12 days of menstrual leave per semester for female students.

NSUI National President Varun Chaudhary told the gathering, “We will continue the fight until Delhi University implements this rule. This provision exists in many universities in India and abroad. NSUI has also fought for this in Panjab University.”

The protest was held in the presence of police and included the launch of a signature campaign to build support for the demand.

Organizers said menstrual health has a direct impact on academic performance, mental well-being, and campus participation.

Without such leave, they argued, many female students are forced to miss classes or attend in discomfort to meet attendance requirements.

The student group urged Delhi University to introduce a formal policy that acknowledges these challenges and ensures no academic penalties for students availing menstrual leave.

They stressed that menstrual health and education are closely linked and that such a measure would promote academic fairness and accessibility.

Citing examples from institutions in India and abroad that already grant menstrual leave, NSUI said the proposal is practical and necessary.

The organization pledged to continue pushing for gender-sensitive reforms, not just at Delhi University but across higher education institutions nationwide.