Recently, a woman breastfeeding in a D Mart was mocked by a young boy, who repeatedly made crude remarks to sexualize a natural act.
Over the past two decades, India’s cities have expanded rapidly, with modern malls, airports, and metro systems, but one basic need remains overlooked: safe, dedicated spaces for mothers to breastfeed.
Health authorities recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, yet outside the home, the lack of suitable spaces makes this difficult.
This Indian boy saw a woman breastfeeding her child in D Mart.
— Oppressor (@TyrantOppressor) March 14, 2026
He then started repeatedly telling his friend, “Will you drink milk? Will you drink milk?” while looking at her.
His intention was clearly to sexualize and mock a mother feeding her baby. This kind of mindset is… pic.twitter.com/ad1tq97Cv5
Why Breastfeeding Spaces Are Hard To Find
A mothers content platform, Momspresso.com surveyed 900 mothers and found out that 93% feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in public due to a lack of proper facilities, highlighting a clear gap between mothers’ needs and existing infrastructure. For many mothers travelling with infants, stepping out means planning around feeding schedules. Public spaces such as markets, parks, offices and transport hubs rarely included breastfeeding rooms.
Government Attention On Breastfeeding Facilities
In recent years, the issue began receiving policy attention. In 2025, the Supreme Court of India recognised breastfeeding as a basic right of both mother and child.
The court asked governments and institutions to ensure the availability of appropriate breastfeeding facilities in workplaces and public places such as airports, malls and government buildings.
However, the rollout remains uneven and many public areas still lack such spaces.
Also watch: Babies, Breast Milk, and Milk Banks
How Public Spaces Can Support Nursing Mothers
Experts often described breastfeeding rooms as a straightforward addition to public design. A small, private and hygienic room with seating could meet most requirements.
Large buildings such as transport hubs, malls and offices could integrate such facilities without major structural changes.
For many mothers, a quiet room to feed a child was not an extra feature. It was a basic part of a public space that worked for everyone.
