Protests broke out at Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) in Rohtak, Haryana, after several women sanitation workers alleged that their supervisors forced them to undress and have their sanitary pads photographed to prove they were on their periods.

The incident reportedly took place on October 26 when the woman reported late for duty on campus.

According to the women, the problem began when supervisors Vinod and Jitendra questioned them for being late. The sanitation workers said they explained they were menstruating and feeling unwell, but the supervisors accused them of lying.

The women said they were then told to remove their clothes and show proof of menstruation. They were later taken to a washroom by another female staff member and asked to click photos of their sanitary pads.

The women alleged: "They said you click photos of your private parts as proof so that the menstrual cycle can be confirmed."
They also said that when two workers refused, they were abused and threatened with being fired.

Once the photos were shown to the su

pervisors, news of the incident spread across campus. Other sanitation workers and students gathered to protest. Videos and photos related to the incident were also sent to the State Women's Commission.

Police have now registered a case against the two accused supervisors.

Station House Officer Roshan Lal said, "A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against the two supervisors. The FIR includes charges under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for sexual harassment, assault or use of criminal force with intent to disrobe and outrage a woman's modesty, criminal intimidation, and acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman."

MDU Registrar Krishnan Kant said an internal inquiry has begun, adding that “those found guilty will not be spared.”

The university issued a statement saying it is committed to a safe, respectful, and culturally sensitive workplace, stating:
"The safety and respect of women are paramount, and the strictest action will be taken against any form of inappropriate behaviour or misconduct."