Karnataka Stands Firm on Menstrual Leave Policy, Tables Legislation in Assembly
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In a significant move, the Karnataka government has defended its menstrual leave policy in the high court, calling it a 'well-considered and constitutionally compliant' decision. The policy, which grants one day of paid leave per month to women employees aged 18 to 52, aims to promote dignity, health, and job security for women in the workforce. The Karnataka Women's Well-being Leave Bill-2025, which is expected to be tabled in the state assembly, proposes a penalty of up to ₹5,000 for employers who intentionally deny menstrual leave or discriminate against menstruating women. The bill expands the scope of the policy to include educational institutions, granting female students two days of leave per month and a 2% relaxation in attendance requirements. A key feature of the proposed law is its penalty clause, which applies to discriminatory behavior, including treating menstruating individuals as 'untouchables'. Under the policy, women employees can request menstrual leave through a simple application or email, without needing to produce medical certificates. Those who wish to work from home instead of taking leave are also allowed to do so. The state government has urged the high court to dismiss the petitions challenging the policy, arguing that it promotes equal participation and job security for women. However, the petitioners, including the Bangalore Hotels Association, have requested the court to prevent the state from implementing the policy until the final hearing. The high court has declined to stay the notification, posting the matter for further hearing on January 20.
