The Odisha government has announced a new policy granting one-day menstrual leave to women employees in both the public and private sectors.
This initiative, revealed during the Independence Day celebrations in Cuttack by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, allows women to take leave on either the first or second day of their menstrual cycle.
The policy addresses the discomfort working women experience during menstruation, acknowledging their needs in the workplace.
Odisha Joins Bihar and Kerala in Menstrual Leave Provision
With this announcement, Odisha becomes the third state in India to offer menstrual leave, joining Bihar and Kerala.
In Bihar, women government employees are entitled to two days of menstrual leave each month up to the age of 45, while Kerala provides a three-day leave policy specifically for female students.
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Odisha’s policy is more inclusive, applying to both government and private sector employees, highlighting a growing recognition of menstrual health in the workforce.
Implementation Challenges and Calls for Clarity
Despite the positive reception from labor union leaders and women’s rights activists, concerns remain about the implementation of the policy, especially in the private sector.
Activists are calling for the government to issue guidelines or a standard operating procedure (SOP) to ensure clear and consistent application of the leave.
There is also a need for the integration of menstrual leave into labor laws, which currently lacks consultation with the Labour Department or private sector stakeholders.
Impact of Raising the Issue
An Odia girl made a significant impact by raising the issue of paid menstrual leave at the United Nations Civil Society Conference 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya.
Her advocacy highlighted the challenges women face during their menstrual cycles and emphasized the importance of recognizing menstrual health as a fundamental workplace right.
This bold move at an international forum brought attention to the need for policies that support women during their periods, contributing to the growing global conversation on menstrual equity and workplace inclusivity.
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