The Supreme Court has given an important verdict, strengthening the rights of women. The court said that it becomes the responsibility of the government to provide adequate facilities to the mothers to breastfeed their children.

Breastfeeding is not just a private process, but part of women’s rights – Supreme Court

A bench of Supreme Court Justice Biwi Nagratna and Justice Prasanna B Varale clarified that
Breastfeeding is not just a private process, but an important part of the woman’s reproductive rights.
This is essential for the health of both mother and child.
The government will have to provide breastfeeding facilities for mothers at public places and workplaces.
Citizens should also ensure that breastfeeding is not seen as a stigma.

Supreme Court’s big decision: Government’s responsibility to provide breastfeeding facilities to women

Government’s constitutional responsibility to provide facilities for breastfeeding

The Supreme Court said in its judgment that breastfeeding is an integral part of the child’s life, existence and healthy development.

• It is associated with the rights of the woman, so it is the duty of the state to provide proper environment and facilities.
• The court ordered the central government to issue instructions in this subject to all state governments.

Government advisory also mentioned

The verdict came during the hearing on the petition of the Avyan Foundation, demanding that the government provide facilities like breastfeeding and care rooms for mothers in public places.

The court mentioned the advisory issued by the Central Government in February 2024, stating that
Breastfeeding room and crush facilities should be provided in workplaces and public buildings.
The government should implement it strictly.

Send instructions to state governments in two weeks – Supreme Court

The Supreme Court said that this advisory is in line with Article 14 (Right to Equality) and Article 15 (3) (Special Provision for Women) of the Constitution.
The central government will have to send these instructions to all state governments within two weeks so that breastfeeding facilities can be implemented in public places soon.
Breastfeeding facilities should be planned in advance in new buildings and such arrangements should be made in existing public places where possible.