Bengaluru, March 14: Karnataka’s Labor Minister Santosh Lad stated on Saturday that making four to five days of menstrual leave legally mandatory may not be practically feasible. He supported recent concerns expressed by the Supreme Court regarding this issue.
In a statement, Lad noted that he had taken into account the Supreme Court’s comments on menstrual leave for female employees and students. The court highlighted potential practical challenges in implementing a law that mandates four to five days of menstrual leave.
The minister welcomed the court’s appreciation of the Karnataka government’s policy, which grants female employees in both government and private sectors one day of paid menstrual leave each month.
Lad explained that the state government introduced the ‘Karnataka Menstrual Cycle Policy 2025’ after extensive consultations with experts, employers, entrepreneurs, doctors, and senior officials. He emphasized that the government carefully examined the benefits and challenges of this policy before its implementation.
Referring to the court’s remark that a nationwide menstrual leave law could reduce employment opportunities for women and create stigma for young women, he stressed the need for comprehensive discussions among all stakeholders and governments on this matter.
He stated that any nationwide menstrual leave policy should consider the opinions of all relevant parties to ensure it is suitable and beneficial for women across the country.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking directions to establish a law mandating four to five days of menstrual leave nationwide.
Minister Santosh Lad posted on the social media platform ‘X’, stating, “The Supreme Court has dismissed a PIL that sought directions for a law providing four to five days of menstrual leave across the country.”
He added, “It is encouraging that the court has also praised Karnataka’s progressive menstrual leave policy, which grants female employees in both government and private sectors one day of paid leave each month.”
Lad further mentioned that while formulating the Karnataka Menstrual Leave Policy 2025, they ensured a balanced, practical, and women-friendly approach through extensive discussions with experts, employers, doctors, and other stakeholders. They carefully considered the interests of both employees and employers, reflecting their inclusive approach.
He concluded by stating that if a suitable policy is developed at the national level, keeping in mind women’s interests and dignity after comprehensive discussions, it would certainly be welcomed.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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