Karnataka to Introduce Six Days of Paid Menstrual Leave for Women

Lad confirmed that a report on the subject had been submitted by an 18-member committee led by Professor Sapna S from Christ University. The committee was appointed by Lad himself to examine the feasibility and impact of such a policy. “Sapna and her team have done great work,” Lad remarked, highlighting the importance of this initiative. “Their report proposes to provide six paid menstrual leaves for women. This is crucial as I have observed how women experience various physiological changes during menstruation, necessitating rest.”

Impact on Women’s Workforce Participation

One of the key objectives of this policy is to increase women’s participation in the workforce, which remains relatively low in India. Lad emphasised that the policy could provide much-needed support to women in both the public and private sectors. After reviewing the recommendations, the committee will engage in consultations with the public, companies, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive input before implementing the policy.

Principal Secretary of Labour, Mohammed Mohsin, further elaborated that this policy would apply to both government and private sector employees. “After discussions and policy formulation, the idea is to eventually frame a law for effective implementation,” he told DH.

Debate Around Menstrual Leave

While the proposal has garnered support from various quarters, it has also sparked debate. Proponents of the policy argue that it fosters a more inclusive and supportive work environment for women. However, critics contend that mandatory menstrual leave may discourage employers from hiring women. The issue attracted significant attention when former Union Minister Smriti Irani voiced her opposition, stating that paid menstrual leave may portray menstruation as a “handicap,” thus harming women’s prospects in the workplace.

Neeti Sharma, CEO at staffing firm TeamLease Digital, shared similar concerns, stating that while such leave is essential for those who need it, it should not be mandatory. “If mandatory, it might deter organisations from hiring women. As such, the participation of women in the workforce is lesser in India, and such policies might widen the gap,” Sharma noted.

Global Perspective on Menstrual Leave

Karnataka’s potential policy aligns with global efforts to provide menstrual leave to women employees. Spain became the first European country to pass legislation for menstrual leave on February 16, 2023. Other nations, including Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, already have provisions for paid menstrual leave. This policy, if implemented, will position Karnataka as a forward-thinking state in India’s efforts to ensure gender inclusivity in workplaces.

The Road Ahead

As Karnataka moves forward with the proposal, the focus will be on creating a balanced and effective policy that addresses the needs of women while considering concerns from employers. Labour Minister Santhosh Lad is expected to meet with the committee to finalise recommendations, following which a consultation process will begin with various stakeholders. The ultimate goal is to formulate a law ensuring the effective implementation of this policy, benefiting lakhs of women employees across the state.

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