Supreme Court Raises Concerns Over Mandatory Menstrual Leave

The Supreme Court of India has expressed concern that making menstrual leave mandatory could negatively affect women’s employment opportunities. During a hearing on a petition seeking directions to frame rules for menstrual leave, the court observed that such a law might discourage companies from hiring women. Chief Justice Justice Surya Kant noted that while creating awareness about menstruation is important, turning it into a mandatory legal requirement could lead to unintended consequences in workplaces.

The court pointed out that if employers are legally compelled to grant menstrual leave, they might hesitate to recruit women, fearing additional obligations. It also highlighted that some universities and private organisations have voluntarily introduced such leave policies in the past. However, the bench clarified that voluntary initiatives are different from compulsory legal mandates. The court emphasised that policies intended to support women should not end up creating barriers to their career growth or reduce their chances of employment.