Karnataka High Court directs Karnataka to implement menstrual leave policy
HR teams at registered establishments must grant one paid monthly leave to women 18–52
Change
Karnataka High Court directed the Karnataka State government to strictly implement a policy requiring registered establishments to grant one paid day of leave per month to women aged 18–52 until the Karnataka Menstrual Leave and Hygiene Bill, 2025 is enacted, and to frame implementing rules after enactment.
Why it matters
Employers in Karnataka must treat monthly menstrual leave as a binding legal obligation rather than optional workforce policy. The court also requires the Karnataka State government to put in place implementing rules once the Bill is enacted, removing room for administrative delay.
Implications
- — HR and payroll teams at registered establishments in Karnataka — must update leave policies and payroll systems immediately to provide one paid day off per month to women aged 18–52 — failure to comply exposes the employer to legal compliance actions under the court order.
- — Karnataka State government's labour department — must publish implementing rules without undue delay after the Karnataka Menstrual Leave and Hygiene Bill, 2025 is enacted — failure to publish rules will prolong legal uncertainty and risk further judicial direction.
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