Chinese Student Reveals Distressing Experience of Removing Trousers During Menstruation
A college in Beijing is facing significant backlash after a video surfaced, allegedly showing a staff member requiring a student to prove she was menstruating in order to obtain sick leave. The clip, which has gone viral on social media, features a young woman questioning the necessity of such a requirement, to which the staff member confirms that it is indeed a school rule. The incident has sparked outrage online, with many condemning the invasion of privacy and calling for accountability from the Gengdan Institute.
Incident Details and Public Reaction
The controversy erupted when a video recorded inside a clinic at the Gengdan Institute was shared widely on social media. In the footage, a student asks an older woman if all menstruating students must undress to receive a sick note. The staff member responds affirmatively, stating that this is a school policy. This revelation has drawn sharp criticism from social media users, who view the requirement as a gross violation of personal privacy. Many have taken to platforms like Weibo to express their disbelief and anger, with comments ranging from sarcastic remarks to serious concerns about the implications of such rules on students’ mental health.
In response to the uproar, Gengdan Institute issued a statement claiming that the staff had adhered to established protocols during the interaction. They also indicated that the circulating videos had been “distorted” and warned of potential legal action against those spreading what they termed “untrue videos.” However, the institute’s attempts to clarify the situation have done little to quell the public’s outrage.
Institution’s Defense and Policy Explanation
The Gengdan Institute defended its actions by stating that the staff member had obtained the student’s permission before proceeding with any clinical work. They emphasized that no physical examination or tools were used during the encounter. The institution suggested that the controversial rule was implemented to prevent students from falsely claiming menstrual-related illnesses to obtain sick notes. However, this rationale has been met with skepticism by many, who argue that there are more effective and less invasive ways to manage such situations.
Critics have pointed out that instead of requiring proof of menstruation, the school could simply maintain a record of sick leave requests. This approach would respect students’ privacy while still addressing concerns about potential misuse of sick leave policies. The incident has reignited discussions about the balance between institutional regulations and students’ rights to privacy and autonomy.
Broader Implications and Institutional Criticism
The incident at Gengdan Institute is not an isolated case; it reflects a broader trend of universities in China facing scrutiny for their stringent rules and regulations. Last year, several institutions were criticized for imposing bans on bed curtains in dormitories, citing safety concerns, which many students viewed as an infringement on their privacy. Additionally, during the May Day holiday, universities issued strict travel guidelines that limited students’ freedom, further fueling discontent among the student body.
The backlash against Gengdan Institute has prompted discussions about the psychological impact of such invasive policies on students. An opinion piece from China National Radio highlighted that menstruation is a sensitive topic for many women, and enforcing rules that require public proof can lead to discomfort and anxiety. As the debate continues, it is clear that students are increasingly unwilling to accept what they perceive as overreach by educational institutions.
Student Voices and Future Actions
Students at Gengdan Institute have begun to voice their concerns more openly, with some expressing relief that the issue has gained traction online. A user on Xiaohongshu, claiming to be a student at the college, noted that similar incidents had occurred in the past but had gone unaddressed. This time, however, the viral nature of the video has brought the issue to the forefront, prompting a wave of criticism directed at the school’s clinic.
The student community appears to be rallying together, with many calling for change and accountability from the administration. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the need for educational institutions to respect students’ privacy and autonomy while maintaining necessary health protocols. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Gengdan Institute will respond to the mounting pressure from both students and the public.
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