The Supreme Court recently shared its views on menstrual leave while hearing a petition seeking paid leave during menstruation for women. The request covered both students and working professionals. During the hearing, the court discussed the possible impact of making such a rule mandatory and raised concerns that it could unintentionally affect employment opportunities for women in the job market.

Chief Justice Surya Kant said that making menstrual leave mandatory through law could create challenges in the job market. According to the court, some employers might hesitate to hire women if such a rule becomes compulsory.

The chief justice also mentioned that awareness about menstrual health is important. However, turning it into a legal requirement may create a negative perception about women at workplaces.

The court said that such a move might make some people believe that women are less capable than men, which could harm equality at work.

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Justice Joymalya Bagchi also spoke about the issue during the hearing. The judge pointed out that the job market often reacts to policies in practical ways.

The court explained that if employers see additional obligations, they may avoid hiring women. This could unintentionally affect employment opportunities.

During the discussion, senior advocate M R Shamshad highlighted that the Kerala government introduced menstrual leave for women students in state universities in 2013.

Some private companies have also introduced similar policies. These decisions were taken voluntarily by institutions and organisations.

The court noted that voluntary policies are different from a law that makes menstrual leave compulsory.

Earlier this year, the Supreme Court also spoke about menstrual hygiene. The court recognised menstrual health as an important part of a girl child’s right to life, dignity, health, and education.

The court also directed governments to improve menstrual health support. This included providing students free sanitary napkins, making sure there were clean bathrooms, and raising awareness about menstrual health.

The discussion about menstrual leave at the Supreme Court continues as the country keeps discussing health support and equality at workplaces.

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The post Supreme Court Questions Mandatory Menstrual Leave, Says Nobody Will Hire Women Then; Here’s Why first appeared on MissMalini.