Pakistani Woman Challenges Government Over Period Tax on Sanitary Pads: A Fight for Women's Rights

Oct 28, 2025 04:48 pm CST

A 25-year-old Pakistani lawyer, Mahnoor Omer, has filed a landmark public interest litigation against the government's heavy taxation on sanitary pads. Her petition argues that the 40% tax burden on menstrual products violates women's constitutional rights to equality and dignity, making essential hygiene items inaccessible for many. With only 12% of Pakistani women using sanitary pads due to high costs, this case highlights the intersection of taxation policy and gender inequality in healthcare access.