In a landmark decision aimed at fostering women's health and workplace equality, the Karnataka government has officially mandated one day of paid menstrual leave every month for working women in Bengaluru. This progressive policy, approved last month, is set to benefit a vast female workforce across both public and private sectors.
Key Details of the New Menstrual Leave Policy
The order, issued by the State Labour Department, is comprehensive in its scope. It applies to all permanent, contract, and outsourced female employees aged between 18 and 52 years. The policy covers companies registered under several key acts, including the Factories Act, 1948, and the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961.
This translates to 12 days of paid leave per year, specifically for menstrual cycles. The government has clarified that this leave is designed to improve the health, efficiency, performance, and mental well-being of women employees. A crucial detail is that the leave must be used within the same calendar month and cannot be carried forward, ensuring it serves its immediate purpose.
Who Benefits and How Implementation Will Work
The policy casts a wide net, impacting women in state government offices, multinational corporations, IT firms, and the massive garment industry. With Karnataka's workforce comprising over 60 lakh women, and an estimated 25–30 lakh employed in corporate and IT sectors alone, the move is significant. The garment industry, which employs about five lakh workers with nearly 90% being women, stands to be a major beneficiary.
Interestingly, the initial proposal drafted for 2024 allowed for six days of leave, but it was later revised to the more generous 12 days, offering women greater flexibility to take one day a month or combine them if their situation requires. To ensure a smooth rollout, the Labour Department has announced that it will conduct awareness programmes for employers, guiding them on the proper implementation of this new rule.
A Step Forward for Women's Welfare
This policy marks a substantial shift in acknowledging the specific health challenges faced by women in the workforce. By legally mandating paid menstrual leave, Karnataka is setting a precedent for other states to follow, prioritizing female employee welfare and paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive work environment. This move is widely seen as a positive step towards dismantling taboos and supporting women's health openly in the professional sphere.
