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Odisha approves One Day Menstrual Leave for Women


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On Thursday, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida announced the introduction of a one-day menstrual leave policy for women across all job sectors. This significant policy change was declared during the district-level Independence Day celebrations in Cuttack, as reported by Kalinga TV.

Policy Implementation and Scope

The newly introduced menstrual leave policy allows eligible women employees to take a day off on the first or second day of their menstrual cycle. This policy will be implemented immediately, providing relief and acknowledging the demands of many who have long advocated for such measures.

Context and Background

The announcement comes in the wake of increasing demands for a paid menstrual leave policy for menstruators across India. On July 8, the Supreme Court urged the central government to consider developing a policy after consulting all relevant stakeholders. This move places Odisha among the few Indian states, including Kerala and Bihar, that offer menstrual leave to women.

Nationwide Implementation Unlikely

Despite the progressive step by Odisha, the possibility of nationwide implementation remains uncertain. On July 26, the Minister of Women and Child Development, Annapurna Devi, clarified in a written response to the Lok Sabha that there are no current plans to make paid menstrual leave mandatory for all workplaces. She stated, “At present, there is no proposal under consideration of the Government to make provision for paid menstrual leave mandatory for all workplaces.”

Supreme Court’s Stance on Menstrual Leave

In July, the Supreme Court instructed the central government to engage with stakeholders to formulate a model policy on mandatory maternity leave. The court’s directive was a response to a plea seeking menstrual leave for female employees. While acknowledging that such a policy could encourage greater participation from women in the workforce, the apex court also expressed concerns that it might deter employers from hiring women.

Growing Advocacy for Menstrual Leave

The topic of menstrual leave has sparked growing discussions and advocacy across India. Historically, menstruation has been surrounded by stigma and silence, leading to discomfort and health issues for many women during their periods. Recently, there has been a push towards recognizing menstrual leave as an essential aspect of women’s health, aiming to foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

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