Women’s Commission writes to CS of Karnataka; Menstrual leave case moved to 21st Jan

Teachers, health workers and staff in private and aided institutions say they are being denied period leave despite the government announcing a paid menstrual leave rule.

The newly introduced paid menstrual leave policy in Karnataka has run into widespread confusion, with women across multiple sectors reporting that the rule is not being implemented for them. Although the state government recently approved paid menstrual leave for women working in government offices, garment factories, IT companies, MNCs and all sectors cleared by the Cabinet, the circular states that the benefit applies only to women registered under the Labour Act, including permanent, contract and outsourced staff.

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This wording has led to uncertainty and exclusion. According to reports, school teachers, college lecturers, women in private and aided institutions, health department staff, nurses and support workers say they are being denied period leave because their employment does not fall under the Labour Act.

Officials heading several private and aided institutions have reportedly refused to grant the leave, saying the order does not cover them. The inconsistency has triggered strong reactions from women’s groups.

In response, the Karnataka State Women’s Commission has written to the Chief Secretary, urging the government to modify the order so that all women, across all sectors, receive paid period leave without restrictions. The Commission has emphasised that the rule must apply to teaching staff, college lecturers, health workers and women in private institutions as well.

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Meanwhile, the Bengaluru Hotel Association has moved the court, requesting that the period leave policy be cancelled entirely. The case has been taken up, and the court has adjourned the hearing to January 21.

As the confusion grows, women employees continue to seek clarity and a uniform policy that ensures they receive the leave promised by the government.

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