Coimbatore School makes class 8 girl sit outside during exam due to periods

A shocking case of insensitivity towards menstruation has surfaced from a private school in Coimbatore, where a Class VIII student was allegedly made to write her annual examination outside the classroom because she was on her period. A viral video of the incident shows the girl sitting on the floor without a proper desk or chair.

The student, belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community, had reportedly informed the school in advance about her situation. Her father said they had requested a separate desk and bench in the exam hall for her, as she had recently attained puberty and might feel discomfort. However, the school ignored the request and instead made her sit on the steps outside the classroom.

The father said the incident took place during two consecutive exams, including the Social Science paper. “She had to write for two and a half hours on the steps, which caused her leg pain,” he said. Upon visiting the school personally on Wednesday, he found his daughter again sitting on the steps during another exam. “When we questioned the authorities, they casually responded, ‘Is this a big problem?’” he added.

Despite the viral outrage, the girl’s father clarified that he did not feel this was an act of caste-based discrimination. He said a relative had shared the video online, which triggered a strong response and calls for accountability.

Authorities have taken note. Director of Matriculation Schools A Palanisamy said an inquiry is underway and a show-cause notice has been issued to the school. Circulars will also be sent to all district schools to prevent such incidents.

Coimbatore Chief Educational Officer R Balamurali and District Educational Officer Punitha Anthonyammal visited the school and began inquiries. Assistant Superintendent of Police Shristi Singh is also investigating the matter. The school principal and other officials were unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.