Court Seeks Response on Harmful Chemicals in Pads

On March 26, 2026, the Madras High Court ordered the Union Ministries of Health and Family as well as Textiles to respond to a Public Interest Litigation. The petition specifically targets the use of carcinogenic and other hazardous chemicals in the manufacture of sanitary napkins, tampons, panty liners, and baby diapers.

The litigation also seeks a directive for the Centre to establish rules requiring the complete disclosure of raw materials used in these essential hygiene products sold across the country. This action follows a study report highlighting the presence of harmful chemicals in popular sanitary napkin brands.

Concerns have been voiced by the petitioner and health experts that certain chemicals, particularly plasticizers like bisphenol and parabens, function as endocrine disruptors. These substances are believed to negatively affect female reproductive health and have been linked to conditions such as breast cancer and reduced germ cell viability.

The court was informed that a Member of Parliament had previously raised this issue in the Lok Sabha, questioning the government's awareness of such studies and existing regulations. The Bureau of Indian Standards' current regulations for sanitary napkins were noted, but the petitioner urged their amendment to prohibit hazardous chemical use.