K'taka HC Reverses Decision on Menstrual Leave Policy, Sets Hearing for December 10
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In a dramatic turn of events, the Karnataka High Court has lifted its interim stay on the state government's menstrual leave policy for women employees. The policy, announced on November 20, mandates one paid menstrual leave per month for women in registered industrial establishments. However, the court initially granted a stay order on Tuesday after hearing petitions from the Bangalore Hotels Association and Avirata AFL Connectivity Systems. The associations argued that the policy was not backed by any statutory law and could impose significant financial and administrative burdens on employers. The court's decision to grant a stay order was met with an urgent appeal from the state's advocate general, Shashi Kiran Shetty. The AG argued that the court should reconsider the stay order to allow the state to present its case. After considering the AG's plea, the court lifted the stay order and set a hearing for December 10. The menstrual leave policy covers permanent, contract, and outsourced workers and does not require women to submit a medical certificate. The policy aims to provide women employees with a necessary break to manage their menstrual health. However, the industry associations have raised concerns about the potential impact on their businesses. The court's decision to set a hearing for December 10 suggests that the menstrual leave policy will be reviewed in more detail. The state government's advocate will argue on behalf of the state, and the court will consider the merits of the policy. The outcome of this hearing will determine the fate of the menstrual leave policy in Karnataka.
