Chinese University Faces Backlash Over Period Leave Policy

The Gengdan Institute in Beijing is facing severe criticism following allegations that it required a student to physically demonstrate her menstruation in order to receive sick leave. A viral video, recorded in what seems to be a campus clinic, captures a young woman's incredulity as she inquires whether all menstruating girls are mandated to "take off their trousers" for medical approval. To which an older staff member nonchalantly confirms such is the school rule.The clip has since gained significant traction on social media platforms, leading to widespread condemnation of the university's policy as a gross invasion of personal privacy. Despite the uproar, both the student and the Gengdan Institute have refrained from commenting publicly on the issue. Authorities from the institution have alleged that the imagery being shared online does not accurately reflect events, and announced intentions to legally pursue those propagating what it termed "maliciously distorted" narratives. In an official statement released after the incident garnered attention, the Gengdan Institute claimed staff members acted according to established protocols and secured consent from the student before proceeding with any examination. However, it did not address the question of written justification for such protocols, prompting more frustration among netizens.The situation has provoked sarcastic remarks across social media, with some suggesting absurd alternatives like linking sanitary pads to sick notes to circumvent the invasive procedure. Questions have arisen as to why the institute chose to implement such a policy if it aimed merely to prevent false leave claims, with proposals suggesting a simpler records system as a reasonable solution.The discourse has extended into other areas of university life, with state media weighing in to highlight the sensitive nature of menstruation and the psychological distress caused by such intrusive regulations. "Rules like this will make students feel uncomfortable," remarked an editorial from China National Radio.The pushback against Gengdan Institute's protocols adds it to a growing list of universities in China facing scrutiny for controlling measures deemed excessive, such as prohibiting bed curtains in dorms for safety reasons and issuing travel restrictions during popular holiday periods.Amidst this backdrop, a self-identified student from Gengdan Institute voiced relief that the controversy had ignited a broader conversation, noting that while previous complaints had been overlooked, public awareness might lead to necessary changes regarding student rights and privacy concerns in educational practices.