Bengaluru: Karnataka is moving towards introducing a progressive policy granting women six days of paid menstrual leave each year.
Labour Minister Santhosh Lad informed Deccan Herald that a committee of 18 members, led by Christ University law professor Sapna S., has submitted a report recommending the initiative. Lad praised the committee’s efforts, emphasizing that the proposal addresses women’s need for six paid menstrual leave days. “I’ve observed firsthand how women experience significant physiological changes during their menstrual cycle, making rest essential,” Lad explained.
He also noted that the policy could boost women’s workforce participation, which is currently low.
Mohammed Mohsin, Principal Secretary of the Department of Labour, confirmed that the policy would apply to women in both the government and private sectors.
If enacted, Karnataka would become the fourth state in India to offer menstrual leave, following Bihar, Kerala, and Odisha.
However, last year, former Union Minister Smriti Irani commented that menstruation is not a “handicap,” describing it as a natural process that doesn’t necessitate a dedicated “paid leave” policy.
