Karnataka Govt Defends Paid Menstrual Leave in Court Against Employer Lawsuit

State Argues for Women's Health Priority

The Karnataka government has presented its case in High Court, arguing its new paid menstrual leave policy is scientifically and objectively sound. Advocate General Shashi Kiran Shetty argued that prioritizing women's long-term health and well-being outweighs the financial concerns raised by employers. The state noted that women often face wage loss or discouragement when taking such leave.

Employers Cite Financial Burden and Legal Doubts

The policy, enacted in December 2025, mandates one paid leave per month for women aged 18-52 in relevant workplaces. However, petitioners including the Karnataka Employers Association and companies like SASMOS HET Technologies have challenged the policy. Their concerns focus on the significant financial burden the mandate creates and question its introduction via executive notification, with some arguing it is discriminatory.

Advocates Argue for Differential Treatment

The Bengaluru Women Lawyers Association and other groups have actively defended the policy against employer objections. Senior Advocate Prof Ravivarma Kumar described the physical and emotional distress women face during menstruation, arguing it creates a unique class deserving special consideration, similar to a physical handicap. The All India Progressive Women's Association and the All India Central Council of Trade Unions supported these points, linking paid leave to women staying in the workforce and achieving equality. They highlighted India's lower female workforce participation compared to global averages.