Supreme Court Directs Centre to Develop Menstrual Leave Policy
New Delhi:The Supreme Court of India has directed the Central Government to draft a model policy on menstrual leave for women employees. This directive came in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the implementation of menstrual leave policies nationwide.
A bench comprising Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, Justice J.B. Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Misra heard the case. After discussions, the bench disposed of the PIL and instructed the Ministry of Women and Child Development to conduct consultations with state governments and other relevant stakeholders.
The goal is to create a comprehensive and consistent policy that addresses the needs and concerns of women employees regarding menstrual leave.
The court highlighted the importance of including diverse perspectives from various stakeholders, such as employers, employees, health experts, and women's rights organisations, to ensure the policy is well-rounded and effective.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development is expected to begin the stakeholder meetings soon. The Supreme Court has urged the Ministry to expedite the process and present the proposed policy at the earliest.
The decision has been welcomed by women's rights activists and organisations, who have long advocated for menstrual leave policies as a critical aspect of gender equality in the workplace.
