Archive · 29 Jul 2026
Madras HC Seeks Report on Paid Menstrual Leave
The Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to provide a report on the progress of creating a policy for paid menstrual leave for women employees.
A resident of Madurai filed a petition saying that without this policy, women face discrimination and health issues.
The court wants the government to form a committee to make rules for this leave and guide private companies.
The next hearing is on August 24.
The court also noted that such a policy would need to be implemented in government departments and private companies, with proper awareness and sensitization.
Madras High Court directed Tamil Nadu government to file a report on the formation of a committee for paid menstrual leave policy.
Petitioner argued that the absence of such a policy results in indirect discrimination against women employees.
Court noted that existing leave frameworks are inadequate for addressing menstrual health issues.
Policy would require implementation across government departments and sensitization of private establishments.
Next hearing scheduled for August 24.
- Who
- Madras High Court, Tamil Nadu government, Madurai resident
- What
- Court seeks status report on paid menstrual leave policy
- When
- Hearing on August 24
- Where
- Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court
- Why
- To address indirect discrimination against women employees and ensure their health and well-being
Proponents of Menstrual Leave
Opponents of Menstrual Leave
Equality and Health
Proponents of Menstrual Leave
Proponents argue that menstrual leave is necessary to address the biological differences between men and women, ensuring equality and health benefits for women.
Opponents of Menstrual Leave
Opponents may argue that such policies could lead to discrimination in hiring and promotion, as employers might prefer to hire men to avoid additional leave costs.
- Court
- Madras High Court, Madurai Bench
- Petitioner
- Madurai resident
- Judges
- Justice C V Karthikeyan and Justice R Sakthivel
- Next Hearing
- August 24
- Article Violated
- Article 14 of the Constitution