Matrix of Menstrual Leave

Smriti Irani, the Union Minister for Women and Child Development, recently stirred the pot by disagreeing with the idea of “paid menstruation leave”. The minister firmly believes that menstruation should not be considered a “handicap”, arguing against the need for a “paid leave policy”. Addressing a query on menstrual hygiene policy from Rashtriya Janata Dal member Manoj Kumar Jha, Irani expressed her perspective, stating that as someone who experiences menstruation, she doesn’t see it as a handicap. “…It’s a natural part of a woman’s life journey… Proposals should not be made that deny women equal opportunities simply because someone who doesn’t experience menstruation has a particular viewpoint towards it,” a national daily quoted her as saying. However, this is not the first instance when the concept of menstrual leave has faced opposition in India. On February 24, the Supreme Court dismissed a PIL advocating for menstrual pain leave, asserting that the issue holds a policy dimension and falls under the Central government’s responsibility for implementation. Furthermore, in 2020, the Delhi High Court had directed the Central and Delhi governments to deliberate on a plea for paid menstrual leave, covering government employees, including daily wage and contractual workers. Despite these instructions, there has been minimal or negligible advancement at the national level in establishing a comprehensive framework for implementing paid menstrual leave. Amidst this ongoing debate, Our Bangalore sought the opinions of Bangaloreans on the matter. The city residents weighed in – some advocating for it, while others called for the eradication of stigma before deliberating on the issue. As the discussion continues, echoing the broader societal conversation on women’s rights and workplace policies, let’s dive into what the Bangloreans have to say on the paid menstrual leave…

“MUTUAL SUPPORT IS THE KEY”

I don’t advocate for mandatory paid leaves, but it’s essential to recognise menstruation’s biological impact. Support from men during challenging times is crucial, and while a day or two off can be beneficial, it shouldn’t be obligatory. We also need to acknowledge that some roles demand 24×7 availability. In those cases, mutual support is key, contributing to a more compassionate and cooperative world where we stand up for one another in times of need.

Malini N, senior HR manager at an edutech firm

“MENSTRUAL LEAVES ARE AKIN TO GOVT’S FREEBIES”

I find this notion absurd. We all have entitlements to privilege/sick/casual leaves, which often go unused at yearend. I encourage people to use these during challenging times. While I don’t scrutinize my team’s leave choices, there’s a need for norms in a corporate setting. If a woman faces distress due to menstrual cramps, opting for sick leave is appropriate; it’s her entitlement, no questions asked. Personally, I view menstrual leaves more as a beneficial provision, akin to the free bus rides provided by the government to women, than an absolute necessity. We, as women, face and overcome much tougher situations daily. We are resilient, and we persevere! No need for sympathy or empathy.

Pallak Yadav, senior project manager at a software delivery firm

“ADDRESS STIGMA BEFORE DISCUSSING MENSTRUAL LEAVES”

If acknowledging menstrual leaves for women was a genuine concern, it should have been addressed long ago, not just now. In many parts of our country, it’s still a taboo, and people shy away from discussing it. Such mentalities are truly nauseating. We must first acknowledge and openly discuss the challenges women face; only then can we have meaningful conversations about menstruation-related leaves. I sincerely hope we can openly discuss menstruation and support each other during these times.

Dwithi B, marketing professional at a Fintech firm

“CHOICE TO TAKE MENSTRUAL LEAVE SHOULD REST WITH THE WOMAN”

I support the idea of granting menstrual leaves to female employees, but I’d also advocate for the option of working from home (WFH) during menstruation. The choice to WFH or take leave should be entirely theirs, and we should be ready to offer support when needed. Clear guidelines on specific days for such arrangements would be beneficial, in my opinion.

Sayak Adhikari, services manager at an industrial automation

“THE LEAST WE CAN DO IS STAND IN SOLIDARITY”

The Indian government may not have endorsed menstrual leave, yet, I’ve witnessed numerous instances where women grapple with the challenges of managing work amidst recurring cramps. Often, they find it difficult to take time off due to professional commitments. Menstruation introduces a level of discomfort we, as men, may not fully comprehend. In recognition of their resilience, the least we can do is stand in solidarity, offer support and provide any assistance possible, acknowledging their perseverance in daily activities amid such pain.

Sanath Jain, a US IT healthcare team lead

“MENSTRUAL LEAVES PROMOTE GENDER EQUALITY”

Providing paid menstrual leaves for female employees is a crucial step towards a balanced and inclusive workplace. The acknowledgment of challenges women face during menstruation fosters a culture that prioritises overall well-being of the staff. Employers, by offering this benefit, show dedication to understanding and accommodating diverse workforce needs, contributing to an equitable and compassionate workplace. This commitment to addressing biological realities supports gender equality and enhances the welfare of all employees.

Judhisthir Patra, a senior marketing manager at an IT firm

“APPROVE LEAVES BASED ON MEDICAL CERTIFICATE”

It’s a debatable topic. Menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding deserve respect. Not all need menstrual leaves; only 25% of urban women experience intolerable pain. Organizations should offer facilities like clean toilets, a private room, and sanitary pads. Leave categorization is essential, and women with heavy periods can get medical evaluations for reimbursement. Empathy is crucial, granting leave based on medical certificates. It’s essential to learn to deal with the problem under medical supervision rather than avoiding it. Education and awareness about menstruation are vital. Avoiding stress is crucial, and two days off per week can help every woman relax and rejuvenate.

Dr Shobha Venkat, gynaecologist from Indiranagar

“PERSONALISED MENSTRUAL LEAVE POLICY IS THE KEY”

Some women navigate menstruation comfortably, while others contend with conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, and heavy bleeding. I advocate for personalized menstrual leave policies. Those who wish to take these leaves can, while others can retain them for future needs.

Dr Sowmya Prakash, a gynaecologist from Bannerghatta