Historic Legal Battle: Young Pakistani Lawyer Challenges ‘Period Tax’ on Sanitary Products
Mahnur Omer, a young lawyer from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, has embarked on a historic legal fight, using her own difficult experiences during adolescence to challenge institutional discrimination against women. She recently took legal action against the unfairly high taxation of menstrual hygiene products in Pakistan.
Mahnur told The Express Tribune, “Since childhood, I have seen women in society face various forms of discrimination, especially concerning their health rights.” Motivated by this, the 25-year-old asked herself, “If we have a license to practice law, why shouldn’t we use it to fight against injustice towards women?”
The ‘Unconstitutional’ Tax Challenge
Mahnur recently filed a petition in the Lahore High Court, demanding that the government tax on sanitary pads be declared unconstitutional. She argues that the high tax unfairly classifies these products—which are essential for women’s basic health—as luxury goods. She calls this discriminatory levy the ‘Period Tax.’
This action has ignited a national debate in Pakistan regarding gender equality and women’s health rights.
The petition states that her case on menstrual hygiene has sparked national discussion on ‘gender-based taxation’ and ‘unequal access to health products,’ drawing support from women across various professions.
The Lahore High Court has already issued notices to the Federal Government, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and other relevant departments, demanding their response.
Potential for a Landmark Victory
If the court declares the tax unconstitutional, it would set a historic legal precedent, forcing the government to recognize sanitary pads as ‘essential commodities’ and remove all taxes. Currently, sanitary pads face approximately 40% tax, including 18% sales tax on locally produced items and about 25% duty on imported raw materials.
Mahnur argues that these taxes violate women’s fundamental rights to equality, dignity, and social justice under Articles 3, 14, 25, and 37 of the country’s constitution.
Breaking the Stigma
Mahnur also spoke about the societal stigma surrounding menstruation: “Menstruation is a natural biological process, yet we don’t educate our girls about it. Many adolescents are confused when they get their first period, and many mothers are afraid to discuss this topic even with their daughters. If we can openly discuss family planning and population control, why can’t we discuss menstrual health?”
Despite facing criticism and ridicule on social media for raising this issue, Mahnur remains undeterred.
She believes that public mentality will eventually change. “There is a void in our society concerning women’s issues. But I believe that winning this case will improve women’s health, reduce disease, and change the social mentality.”
