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Karnataka introduces paid menstrual leave for formal-sector workers
Karnataka has become India's first state to grant all women in formal employment-both public and private sectors-one day of paid menstrual leave per month, a policy covering an estimated 350,000 to 400,000 workers.
The new rule, announced this week, applies to women aged 18 to 52 and does not require medical documentation. However, unused leave cannot be carried over to subsequent months. The measure excludes millions in the informal sector, including domestic workers, gig employees, and daily-wage laborers.
Global precedent, local debate
Menstrual leave policies exist in several countries, including Spain, Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia. Within India, Bihar and Odisha already offer two days of leave per month-but only for government employees-while Kerala extends the benefit to university and vocational institute staff.
In Karnataka, the inclusion of private-sector workers marks a significant expansion. Yet the policy has reignited discussions about gender equality, with critics arguing it could reinforce workplace bias. Supporters counter that it addresses a biological necessity, preventing wage loss or forced labor during severe menstrual pain.
"This is one of the most progressive policy decisions for women that the government is implementing."
Santosh Lad, Karnataka's Labour Minister
Implementation challenges and cultural barriers
While trade groups like Nasscom-representing IT and BPO industries-state that many Karnataka-based firms already offer menstrual leave, broader adoption faces hurdles. Menstruation remains heavily stigmatized in India, with women often excluded from religious spaces or isolated during their cycles.
"How can one go and seek menstrual leave when we don't even speak about it? Our society has not reached that level."
Anunita Kundu, software company manager
Aruna Papireddy, an IT professional, dismissed the need for leave, stating, "Women have reached high positions without even mentioning the M word." Social scientist Pushpendra added that while policies like Bihar's have provided practical support, they haven't dismantled stigma-pointing to persistent practices like wrapping sanitary pads in newspaper.
Calls for broader change
Advocates urge extending the policy to informal workers, who lack labor protections. Pratibha R, president of the Garment and Textile Workers' Union, highlighted that most female garment workers receive only 11 leave days annually, making additional support critical.
Some women, like Bengaluru-based teacher Shreya Shree, believe the policy's explicit language could help normalize discussions: "Calling it menstrual leave helps in fighting the stigma." Sapna S, associate dean at Christ University and head of Karnataka's menstrual leave committee, urged women to embrace the benefit without shame.
"What is needed is an attack on the social conditioning that exists. Women should not be apologetic or shy to ask for menstrual leave."
Sapna S, Christ University
Historical context
Efforts to destigmatize menstruation in India have met resistance. In 2018, protests erupted in Kerala over plans to lift a ban on menstruating women entering Sabarimala temple, underscoring deep-rooted cultural tensions. Experts emphasize that policy shifts must accompany broader education to challenge entrenched attitudes.
