NEWS

• The Karnataka government has officially notified a menstrual leave policy, granting one day of paid leave per month to women employees.
• The policy applies to women aged 18 to 52 years, marking a significant move towards workplace inclusivity and gender-sensitive reforms.

HIGHLIGHTS

Coverage and Applicability

• The leave provision will cover permanent, contract, and outsourced workers.
• It extends to employees working under:
  • Factories Act, 1948
  • Karnataka Shops and Establishments Act, 1961
  • Plantation Workers Act, 1951
  • Beedi and Cigar Workers (Conditions of Employment) Act, 1966
  • Motor Transport Workers Act, 1961
• However, the Government Order (GO) does not cover government employees, anganwadi workers, or ASHAs at present.

 Policy Details

• The Labour Department stated that the decision aims to address women’s health, enhance efficiency, and encourage female participation in the workforce.
• The leave cannot be carried forward to the next month, and no medical certificate is required.
• The initial recommendation of six leaves annually was increased to 12 following Cabinet approval.

Responses and Feedback

• Out of the feedback received, 56 responses supported the policy, including 26 from employers.
• Labour rights activists and unions welcomed the step but urged the government to formalise it through legislation for stronger enforcement.

 Concerns Raised

• Activists like Divya Biradar (AITUC) called for inclusion of domestic, agricultural, construction, and scheme workers.
• Questions were raised over the upper age limit of 52, with experts suggesting flexibility since menopause varies among women.