Is the Indian Army Obligated to Address Personal Issues Like Periods of Women Soldiers?
Is the Indian Army Obligated to Address Personal Issues Like Periods of Women Soldiers?
When it comes to personal issues like periods, the Indian Army's stance can vary depending on the role and rank of the individual. This article explores whether the Indian Army should address such issues and whether the obligation to do so extends beyond higher-ranking officers.
Understanding the Stance of the Indian Army
The Indian Army's approach to the personal aspects of soldiers, including women, is stratified by rank. For women who are officers, the steps taken to address personal issues are expected to be more comprehensive. However, for women soldiers in other ranks, the situation is noticeably different.
For officers, the Army is more likely to provide support and ensure that the personal needs of women soldiers are met. This includes providing facilities and resources necessary for managing menstrual cycles. But for women at lower ranks, the Indian Army's response is often inadequate or non-existent. This disparity raises important questions about gender equality in the military.
Addressing Menstruation in Civilian Settings
The issue of addressing menstrual health in the Indian Army should be compared to the treatment of similar issues in civilian settings. In the civilian workforce, employers or contractors may or may not provide support for personal issues, but there are often generic social norms that expect certain accommodations. However, if such issues become a significant challenge, employees are expected to find solutions themselves or seek alternative employment options.
For example, a construction worker or laborer on a road or building site may also experience periodic menstruation. However, these workers do not typically expect their employers to address these personal issues. If menstruation affects a worker's ability to perform their job, it is generally the responsibility of the individual to find a way to manage it or seek alternative work.
The Role of the Army in National Security
The Indian Army's primary responsibility is to address the nation's security and safeguard its citizens. It is crucial to remember that the deployment of women soldiers in all ranks, whether officers or other ranks, is designed to enhance the combat effectiveness of the Army. If women soldiers perceive that their personal needs are frequently neglected, they may question the Army's commitment to their overall well-being and effectiveness on the battlefield.
This perspective suggests that for women soldiers, the Army's obligation should extend beyond just addressing immediate tactical issues and should include support for personal health needs. The holistic care of soldiers, including women, is essential for effective military operations.
Lessons from Schools and Police Forces
Similarly, schools and police forces, despite being public institutions, do not typically address specific personal issues like menstruation. While schools may provide basic hygiene facilities, they generally do not focus on menstrual health management as a primary concern. Police forces, too, do not usually provide support for such issues, but rather expect individuals to manage them independently.
These examples illustrate a broader principle: while public institutions may offer certain amenities and support, it is generally expected that individuals will take responsibility for managing their personal health needs within the context of their roles and responsibilities.
However, the persistent neglect of period management in the Army for women soldiers in other ranks can be seen as a gap in support. This disparity not only affects the comfort and well-being of the soldiers but also their ability to perform their duties effectively.
Conclusion
Society and institutions, whether the Indian Army, schools, or police forces, have their primary roles and responsibilities. Addressing personal issues like menstruation is not typically within the purview of their core mission. However, for women soldiers in the Indian Army, especially those in other ranks, the lack of support for such basic health needs is concerning.
Advocacy for better support and facilities to manage menstrual health for all soldiers, regardless of rank, is essential. This can help ensure that women soldiers remain healthy and effective in their roles, contributing more fully to the nation's security.