Historic Liberation: Odisha Grants Empowering Menstrual Leave for Women Employees on Independence Day
Odisha Government Announces One-Day Menstrual Leave for Women Employees
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has introduced a one-day menstrual leave policy for women employees in both state government and the private sector. Announced by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida during the Independence Day celebrations in Cuttack, the policy is effective immediately. It permits women to take leave on the first or second day of their menstrual cycle, underscoring the state’s commitment to enhancing women’s health and well-being.
This policy emerges amidst ongoing national debates about menstrual leave in India. Currently, there is no national legislation addressing this aspect. However, the Right of Women to Menstrual Leave and Free Access to Menstrual Health Products Bill 2022 is under consideration, proposing three days of paid leave for women and transwomen. The bill is yet to be enacted. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has recommended that the central government devise a model policy on menstrual leave, emphasizing the need for policy-making over judicial intervention.
Odisha’s decision aligns it with a few other states and private companies that have adopted menstrual leave policies. In India, only Bihar and Kerala have implemented such measures so far. Bihar introduced its policy in 1992, offering women two days of paid menstrual leave each month. Kerala extended its policy in 2023 to include female students in all universities and institutions, providing up to 60 days of maternity leave for female students over 18. Additionally, some private companies like Zomato have also started offering menstrual leave; Zomato grants 10 days of paid period leave annually since 2020.
Despite these advancements, there remains no comprehensive national law governing menstrual leave. Legislative efforts in the past, including the Menstruation Benefits Bill, 2017 and the Women’s Sexual Reproductive and Menstrual Rights Bill, 2018, have failed to pass. Odisha’s new policy marks a significant step forward in recognizing and addressing the workplace needs of women.
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