New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has cautioned that making menstrual leave mandatory by law could unintentionally affect women’s career prospects. The court observed that while the proposal is intended to support women’s health and well-being, it may lead some employers to hesitate in hiring women due to additional workplace obligations.
The observation came while hearing a petition seeking a nationwide policy granting menstrual leave for working women and female students. The bench noted that such a sensitive issue involves broader social and workplace considerations and is better handled through government policy rather than judicial directives. The court suggested that the matter be taken up with the Union Government of India, stressing the need for a balanced approach that protects women’s health without creating unintended barriers to employment.
