India, Jan. 30 -- The Supreme Court on Friday directed all states and Union Territories to ensure that schools provide biodegradable menstrual sanitary pads to students for free. Recognising the right to menstrual hygiene and access to menstrual hygiene products, the court said that it is part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan told states and Union Territories to ensure separate toilets for female and male students and ensure availability of sanitary pads in classes 6 to 12, HT reported.

It also said all schools, irrespective of whether they are state-run or controlled, will have to provide disabled-friendly toilets, sanitary napkins, water and soap, along...