With local body elections nearing, Kerala's former University Vice-Chancellor and public health expert, B. Ekbal, spotlighted a neglected issue. He said major political parties have ignored the need for clean, safe public toilets for women in both cities and villages. Dr. Ekbal posted on Facebook that this basic health need is missing from election promises. He said it's shameful that Kerala, known for high standards, has not provided this fundamental facility. Many women quietly accept that change is unlikely soon, he added. "Half of local body seats are reserved for women, and in the last term, women held 52% of posts," Dr. Ekbal noted. "Yet, the state fails to ensure this basic need." He highlighted health risks too. Women avoid using public toilets because they are often dirty. Holding urine can cause urinary tract infections and even urinary incontinence in older women. This habit starts young, forced by the lack of clean toilets. Though some local governments created "She Toilets," many are broken, too few, or placed where women feel unsafe. Most women rely on toilets at fuel stations or restaurants, but that option is limited. Dr. Ekbal appealed to election candidates, especially women, to pledge to provide clean, functional public toilets for women in their areas. He said women’s strong presence in local bodies should help solve this vital health issue.