Karnataka's Menstrual Leave Policy
Context:
Karnataka has become the first State in the country to approve one day of paid menstrual leave per month for all women employees.
Key Provisions of the Policy
Covers women employees in government offices, educational institutions, factories, and private organisations.
The policy grants one paid menstrual leave day per month which amounts to 12 days a year.
The policy is being hailed as a progressive measure recognising menstrual health as a legitimate workplace concern.
It aims to align with the Constitutional principles of gender equity and affirmative action under Articles 14, 15, and 42.
Comparison with Other States
While Karnataka's policy is the first to cover all sectors, other states have partial provisions
Odisha and Bihar have similar policies limited to government employees
Kerala has implemented menstrual leave in universities.