The Karnataka government has made history by becoming the first state in India to mandate one day of paid menstrual leave per month for all working women in both public and private sectors. The policy also covers establishments employing five or more persons for performances such as equestrian or acrobatic shows.
The Policy is based on a 2024 report submitted by an 18-member expert committee led by Sapna S, Associate Dean and Head of the School of Law at Christ (Deemed to be) University. The committee included government representatives, industry leaders, trade unions, doctors, gynecologists, and professors from the Institute of Social and Economic Change (ISEC) and Christ University. They studied workplace impact and recommended six leave days per year, which was doubled to twelve after further government review and consultation.
While states such as Bihar and Odisha have similar policies for government employees and Kerala offers the benefit in its universities, Karnataka’s comprehensive scheme marks a significant shift given its large and diverse female workforce, particularly in Bengaluru’s major IT and industrial sectors.
The Policy grants women employees the right to avail themselves of one day of paid leave during their menstrual cycle every month. Companies will be required to implement the leave policy and ensure that no deductions or disciplinary actions are taken against women employees availing themselves of this statutory right.
The State’s Labour Department sources said the leave will not be encashable and cannot be clubbed across months. The discretion to avail the leave rests with the employee. It will take effect from the date of the government order, with authorities clarifying that employers are prohibited from seeking detailed medical proof for sanctioning the leave.
The government has set up mechanisms for redressal in case of denial of leave and aims to protect women’s health and dignity at work. The Labour Department has also been tasked to closely monitor compliance and to address concerns from employers and employees. The leave will be in addition to existing sick and casual leave entitlements.