The Winter session of the Parliament, which began last week, turned the spotlight on the topic of menstrual leave.
YSRCP MP Chinta Anuradha raised the need for menstrual leave for public, and private employees
Anuradha called upon the Centre to grant a two-day menstrual leave for those in the public and private sectors. Explaining how policies like menstrual leave were long overdue, Anuradha was quoted as saying in news reports, “Many women suffer from menstrual disorders and may even suffer from illnesses like ovarian cysts. In such a scenario, paid leaves in form of menstrual leave ensure women have direct pathways to rest when they need it the most, be more productive at work and find it easier to remain in the labor market. I request the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to enforce a two-day menstrual leave every month for employees of the private and public sector.”
She also pointed out that monthly period leave will be an equitable approach.
In countries like Indonesia, South Korea, Taiwan, and Zambia, period leaves are a government-backed policy. Four years ago, an MP from Arunachal Pradesh tabled The Menstruation Benefit Bill seeking paid menstrual leave in the Lok Sabha.
Studies have shown that period time pain and bleeding can be equal to nine days of lost productivity for women. It also leads to exhaustion and trauma for a fair percentage of women, according to studies.
In India, companies like Jaipurkurti.com, Flipkart, etc. have announced period leaves to ensure productivity and talent retention.
