Pakistani lawyer Mahnoor Omer has filed a petition in the Lahore High Court against the 40% tax on sanitary pads, calling it unfair and discriminatory towards women. She argues that menstrual hygiene products are essential, not luxury items, and taxing them violates the fundamental rights to equality, dignity, and social justice guaranteed by the Constitution.
Through her campaign, “Period Tax Fight,” Mahnoor aims to raise awareness about how this tax deepens gender inequality. She pointed out that millions of women in Pakistan already struggle to afford sanitary products due to low income levels, and the additional tax makes it even harder for them to maintain proper hygiene.
According to reports, only about 12% of Pakistani women use commercial sanitary pads, while most rely on cloth or homemade alternatives. This practice increases the risk of infections and other health issues, especially in rural areas where awareness and access are limited.
Mahnoor emphasized that menstrual health should be treated as a public health issue, not a private burden. She urged the government to abolish the tax and make sanitary products more affordable, similar to measures taken by other countries like India and Kenya.
The petition has sparked discussions on social media, with many supporting Mahnoor’s initiative as a long-overdue step toward gender equality and menstrual justice. Activists hope this case will push policymakers to prioritize women’s health and eliminate barriers that affect their daily lives.
