Archive · 29 Jul 2026
Kerala HC Asks Govt to Consider Menstrual Leave for KSRTC Women Conductors
The Kerala High Court has asked the state government to consider introducing a menstrual leave policy for women conductors working for the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).
The court recognized that the physically demanding nature of their work, combined with inadequate workplace facilities, makes menstruation particularly difficult for these women.
The petition, filed by three women conductors and the Forum for Justice (FFJ), highlighted the lack of clean toilets, rest areas, and proper disposal systems for menstrual hygiene products.
The court noted that menstrual leave is consistent with constitutional guarantees protecting women's dignity and welfare.
While the court did not direct the government to frame a policy, it ordered the state to consider and decide on the petitioners' representation within three months.
Similar policies have been adopted in Karnataka, Bihar, and Odisha, and Kerala has already introduced menstrual leave for women students in several universities.
Kerala High Court asks state government to consider menstrual leave for KSRTC women conductors.
Petition highlights physically demanding work and inadequate workplace facilities.
Court recognizes menstrual leave as a progressive welfare measure consistent with constitutional guarantees.
State government ordered to consider and decide on the petitioners' representation within three months.
Similar menstrual leave policies have been adopted in Karnataka, Bihar, and Odisha.
- Who
- Kerala High Court, KSRTC women conductors, Forum for Justice (FFJ)
- What
- Consideration of introducing paid menstrual leave for KSRTC women conductors
- When
- July 23, 2025
- Where
- Kerala, India
- Why
- To recognize the physical and psychological impact of menstruation and promote employee welfare and dignity
Supporters of Menstrual Leave
Opponents of Menstrual Leave
Health and Welfare
Supporters of Menstrual Leave
Menstrual leave is a progressive welfare measure that recognizes the physical and psychological impact of menstruation, promoting employee welfare and dignity.
Opponents of Menstrual Leave
Menstrual leave may be seen as unnecessary or could lead to potential misuse, impacting workplace efficiency.
Productivity
Supporters of Menstrual Leave
Providing menstrual leave can reduce presenteeism, enhance productivity, and foster a more inclusive workplace.
Opponents of Menstrual Leave
Some argue that menstrual leave could disrupt workflow and create inequities among employees.
- Petitioners
- Three women conductors employed by KSRTC and the Forum for Justice (FFJ)
- Number of Women Employees
- Nearly 3,000
- Working Conditions
- Long shifts, lack of hygienic toilets, inadequate rest areas, and improper menstrual waste disposal facilities
- Court's Directive
- State government to consider and decide on the petitioners' representation within three months
- Menstrual Leave Policies Elsewhere
- Karnataka, Bihar, and Odisha have introduced menstrual leave policies
