The Supreme Court disposed of a writ petition seeking directions for the introduction of paid menstrual leave for women in all establishments, directing the Central Government to consider the petitioner’s representation for framing an appropriate policy after consulting all stakeholders.

During the hearing, the Court observed that the issue of menstrual leave involves policy considerations and would be better addressed by the Government in consultation with stakeholders. The Bench accordingly directed the petitioner to submit a representation to the Central Government, which was asked to examine the request for modelling a menstrual leave policy.

At the same time, the Court expressed reservations about mandating menstrual leave through legislation, observing that such a measure could have unintended consequences for women’s employment. The Court remarked that compulsory menstrual leave might discourage employers from hiring women, which could adversely affect their participation in the workforce.

In view of these considerations, the Court disposed of the writ petition while leaving it open to the petitioner to pursue the representation before the Central Government for appropriate policy consideration.