Mandatory Period Leave May Affect Women’s Jobs, Says Supreme Court of India
Supreme Court of India Rejects Petition for Mandatory Menstrual Leave The Supreme Court of India on Friday refused to hear a petition seeking a nationwide policy for menstrual leave for female students and employees.
A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi said that making menstrual leave mandatory by law could create problems in employment. The court observed that employers might hesitate to hire women if such a rule becomes compulsory.
The bench also said that such petitions may unintentionally strengthen stereotypes about women and portray menstruation as something negative.
However, the court suggested that concerned government authorities could study the issue and consider the possibility of a policy after consulting all stakeholders.
The petition was filed by Shailendra Mani Tripathi, whose lawyer argued that some states and private companies have already introduced menstrual leave voluntarily. The court responded that voluntary leave is acceptable, but making it mandatory could have wider social and employment consequences.
ALSO READ: Param Sundari Movie All Dialogues
