Lack of hygienic menstrual shelters posing health risk to tribal women
Tribal women in the Lakkam settlement are facing health risks due to the dilapidated state of traditional menstrual shelters. Community leaders are calling for modern facilities similar to those implemented in other tribal regions to ensure hygiene and safety.
Why it matters
It highlights the intersection of traditional cultural practices, gender inequality, and the need for public health infrastructure in marginalized communities.
The absence of a modern, hygienic rest facility for Muthuvan tribal women during menstruation has created a severe health hazard in the Lakkam tribal settlement near Munnar. According to M. Palraj, president of the Adivasi Muthuvan Samudhaya Sangam, the community’s traditional secluded huts —known locally as ‘valaimpura’ — are in deplorable condition, leaving women and young girls afraid to stay there.
“Nearly 80 families reside in the Lakkam settlement under Munnar panchayat. There is only one valaimpura serving approximately 100 women and adolescent girls, and its condition is pathetic. During rains, water leaks directly inside the shelter,” said Mr. Palraj.
The valaimapura at Lakkam tribal settlement in a dilapidated state | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
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