After four years of legal struggle, the Supreme Court of Nepal has finally issued a mandamus order to remove all additional taxes on sanitary pads. This means that from now on, sanitary pads will no longer be taxed in Nepal.
The case was filed in 2078 BS by Shrina Nepal and Abhyudaya Bhetwal, demanding tax removal on menstrual hygiene products. They argued that taxing essential items like sanitary pads was unfair and discriminatory towards women.
The court has now ruled in favor of the petition, and the government must fully lift the tax on these products. This decision is expected to make sanitary pads more affordable and accessible, especially for women in rural areas.
The ruling is being widely praised as a progressive step for menstrual health rights in the country.
