The Chhaupadi hut, situated far from home, is inherently unsafe and serves as a breeding ground for potential predators. Drawing by Kristina Singh Magar

Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed annually on May 28th, serves as a crucial catalyst for change, providing a platform to address the multifaceted challenges faced by menstruating individuals worldwide. The theme for Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023 is: making menstruation a normal fact of life by 2030. The overarching goal is to build a world where no one is held back because they menstruate by 2030 too. This year's (2023's) theme is #wearecomitted which says "together", we can transform the narrative surrounding menstruation, ensuring that no one is held back by archaic taboos and that menstrual hygiene becomes a basic human right for all. Menstruation has been considered a taboo subject in many cultures around the world for centuries. Various taboos associated with menstruation are rooted in religious, cultural, and traditional beliefs, leading to the emergence of different practices. For instance, within Islam, women are not expected to engage in prayer, fasting, or physical intimacy during menstruation. Similarly, in Jewish tradition, menstruating women are considered ritually impure, and anything or anyone they touch is also deemed impure. One particular practice found in certain regions is the segregation of girls and women from their families during menstruation, considering them impure. The extent and manner of separation, however, vary among communities. It can involve isolating women in a separate hut located on the outskirts of the village, as seen in extreme cases like the Indonesian Huaulu, or keeping them separated within a separate hut near the household, as observed among the Dogons in the central plateau region of Mali. In Nepal, a practice known as Chhaupadi involves the separation of menstruating women from the rest of their families.

What is Chhaupadi?

Chhaupadi, an entrenched custom in Nepal's mid- and far-western regions, is a monthly exile for women that involves the expulsion of women from their homes during menstruation. This tradition finds its roots in Hindu beliefs associating menstrual and childbirth secretions with impurity. The term "Chhaupadi" originates from the Raute dialect of Achham district, where "Chhau" signifies menstruation and "padi" refers to a woman. According to this practice, women are considered impure during their menstrual cycle and must refrain from their regular activities. They are isolated in small sheds or huts made of mud and stones, known as "goth", devoid of windows or locks. These sheds, measuring approximately 1x2 meters, are situated around 20-25 meters away from their main residences. Inside these cramped and dimly lit spaces, women endure unhygienic conditions with cold, dirty floors on which they sit and sleep. Chhaupadi is classified into two types: major chhau and minor chhau. During the minor chhau, occurring monthly, women spend up to 5 days in these sheds. In the case of major chhau, which encompasses the period after childbirth and menarche, the duration extends up to 11 days. On the final day, women cleanse themselves by bathing and washing their clothes and bedding before returning home. However, even on this day, they are forbidden from purifying themselves in public water sources. Consequently, women who adhere to Chhaupadi must bathe and clean their possessions in a separate well or tap known as "Chhaupadi Dhara," situated near the village.

What risks do women face during their exile to Chhaupadi hut?

Women who are forced to stay in Chhaupadi huts face numerous challenges and issues that significantly impact their well-being. Some of the Key issues are: Poor living conditions: Chhaupadi huts are often cramped, dark, and unsanitary. They are typically made of mud and stones, lacking proper ventilation, windows, locks, and insulation. The huts are literally tiny, providing very limited space for women to move around, sit, and sleep. The floors are cold, dirty, and uncomfortable, which can severely affect their physical health too. Exposure to extreme weather conditions: Women staying in Chhaupadi huts are vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. During the cold winter months, the huts offer inadequate protection against low temperatures, leading to discomfort, hypothermia, and related health issues. Similarly, during the hot summer season, the huts can become unbearably hot, posing risks of dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Limited access to sanitation facilities: Chhaupadi huts often lack proper sanitation facilities, including toilets and bathing facilities. Women are forced to rely on inadequate alternatives such as nearby bushes or fields, increasing the risk of infections, hygiene-related issues, and exposure to privacy and safety concerns. Health risks and inadequate healthcare: Staying in Chhaupadi huts puts women at risk of various health problems. The unhygienic conditions and lack of access to clean water and sanitation increase the likelihood of urinary tract infections and reproductive health complications. Furthermore, women in Chhaupadi are often unable to seek timely and appropriate healthcare due to their isolation and restricted mobility, leading to delays in accessing medical assistance, if available any. Safety hazards and animal attacks: Chhaupadi huts are intentionally situated away from residential areas and are isolated, posing risks to women's safety. They are exposed to potential dangers such as animal attacks, including snake bites, insect bites, and other wildlife encounters. The absence of proper security measures in the huts can make women more vulnerable to accidents and incidents of violence. Psychological and social impacts: The isolation and stigma associated with Chhaupadi have significant psychological and social impacts on women. They experience feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem, leading to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Women are subjected to social exclusion, discrimination, and limited interaction with their families and communities, affecting their overall well-being and sense of belonging. Sexual harassment: Here is a significant risk of sexual harassment and assault faced by women who are isolated in Chhaupadi huts. The secluded nature of the huts, often situated away from residential areas lack proper security measures, leaving women more susceptible to harassment and assault. The isolation and marginalization of women during their menstruation create an environment where their safety and well-being are compromised. Women staying in Chhaupadi huts may face threats from individuals who take advantage of their vulnerable position and lack of protection. This can include sexual harassment, assault, or other forms of abuse by family members, neighbors, or strangers. The fear of sexual harassment and assault further contributes to the psychological distress and anxiety experienced by women in Chhaupadi. It underscores the urgent need to address and eliminate this harmful practice, ensuring the safety and protection of women during their menstruation.

What are the major movements taken to completely abolish Chhaupadi in Nepal?

Several significant movements and initiatives have been undertaken in Nepal to abolish the practice of Chhaupadi. These movements involve a range of stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society organizations, women's rights activists, community leaders, and affected communities. Supreme Court Ruling: In 2005, the Supreme Court of Nepal issued a landmark ruling declaring Chhaupadi illegal. The court deemed it a violation of human rights, and it directed the government to take necessary measures to eliminate this practice. Legal Provisions: In 2017, the Government of Nepal introduced a new law criminalizing Chhaupadi. The law stipulates that anyone who forces a woman or girl to follow Chhaupadi practices can be punished with up to three months in jail or a fine of NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 30), or both. Amendments to the Civil and Criminal Codes: In 2018, the Nepalese government introduced amendments to the Civil and Criminal Codes, which explicitly criminalize Chhaupadi. These amendments strengthen the legal framework and provide a basis for legal action against those who practice or enforce Chhaupadi. Awareness Campaigns and Education: The government, along with various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society groups, has launched extensive awareness campaigns and educational programs to challenge the deeply ingrained beliefs and practices associated with Chhaupadi. These initiatives aim to change social attitudes, promote gender equality, and educate communities about menstrual health and hygiene. Safe Menstrual Practices: Efforts have been made to promote safe menstrual practices and provide alternative options for women and girls during their menstruation. This includes the distribution of sanitary products, the construction of proper toilet facilities, and the provision of menstrual health education and services in rural areas. Community Engagement and Local Initiatives: Local communities and grassroots organizations have played a crucial role in raising awareness about the harms of Chhaupadi and working towards its elimination. These initiatives often involve community dialogues, engagement with local leaders, and the active participation of women and girls themselves.

Why has Chhaupadi not been completely abolished in Nepal yet?

Despite these measures, eliminating Chhaupadi completely has proved to be a complex challenge in Nepal. The persistence of Chhaupadi in Nepal can be attributed to several reasons: Deep-rooted cultural beliefs and traditions: Chhaupadi is deeply ingrained in traditional cultural beliefs surrounding purity, menstruation, and religious practices. These beliefs have been passed down through generations, making it challenging to bring about a shift in societal attitudes and behaviors. Limited awareness and education: In some communities, there is limited awareness and understanding of the negative impacts of Chhaupadi. Lack of education and information about menstrual hygiene, women's rights, and the health risks associated with the practice contribute to its continuation. Gender disparities and discrimination: Traditional gender roles and power dynamics contribute to the perpetuation of Chhaupadi. Societal norms and inequalities marginalize women, limit their autonomy, and reinforce the practice as a means of control and exclusion. Insufficient enforcement of laws: While Chhaupadi has been declared illegal in Nepal, enforcement of the laws and penalties is often inadequate. Limited resources, lack of monitoring, and challenges in implementing the law contribute to the persistence of the practice. Superstitious beliefs and fear: Superstitions and cultural fears associated with the consequences of defying Chhaupadi, such as angering deities or bringing misfortune upon the community, also contribute to its perpetuation. Fear of social exclusion and ostracization further reinforces adherence to the practice.

Time to Call for Action #wearecommited

Menstruation is often accompanied by social stigmatization and shame. Women may feel embarrassed or ashamed about their periods and may avoid discussing it openly. This can perpetuate a culture of silence and reinforce the stigma surrounding menstruation. While it is important to note that ending Chhaupadi requires sustained efforts over time it is also important to note that not all women in Nepal experience these challenges, and the attitudes towards menstruation are gradually changing. On Menstrual Hygiene Day, it is crucial to mobilize individuals, communities, policymakers, and organizations to take action. This includes advocating for policies that prioritize menstrual hygiene, promoting comprehensive menstrual health education, ensuring access to affordable and sustainable menstrual products, and creating safe and hygienic spaces for managing menstruation. It is through collective efforts and a commitment to change that we can dismantle the age-old barriers that have held women and girls back from fully participating in society. It is imperative to galvanize efforts to dismantle the barriers that hinder menstrual hygiene and perpetuate discrimination. This includes challenging cultural norms, advocating for policy changes, and fostering supportive environments that empower women and girls to manage their menstruation with dignity. By engaging in open dialogue, promoting education, and providing access to resources, we can pave the way for a world where menstruation is embraced, respected, and celebrated.