Karnataka Introduces Menstrual Leave Policy: 1 Paid Day Monthly for Women, No Certificate Needed

In a historic move for workplace inclusivity and women’s health, the Karnataka government has officially introduced a Menstrual Leave Policy for female employees across Bengaluru and the rest of the state.

Starting immediately, women aged 18 to 52 can take one paid day off per month during their menstrual cycle — without needing to submit a medical certificate.

Karnataka Becomes the First State to Implement Menstrual Leave

With this decision, Karnataka has become the first Indian state to legally grant menstrual leave to working women across both public and private sectors.

According to the official government order:

“Employers must provide 12 days of paid leave annually — one day per month — to all permanent, contractual, and outsourced female employees aged between 18 and 52.”

The policy covers workplaces under multiple acts, including:

Factories Act, 1948

Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961

Plantation Workers Act, 1951

Beedi and Cigar Workers Act, 1966

Motor Transport Workers Act, 1961

The move aims to promote health, well-being, and productivity among women employees while encouraging a more empathetic workplace culture.

Do You Need Any Documents to Avail Menstrual Leave?

No medical certificate is required.

Women employees can self-avail one day of menstrual leave each month, but it cannot be carried forward to the next month if unused.

This simple and flexible approach makes it easier for women to take time off without bureaucratic hurdles.

Public Reaction: Support and Debate

The policy has sparked a lively debate online — especially on platforms like Reddit.

Many users applauded the initiative as a long-overdue recognition of women’s health needs.

“Such a good decision. It’s been hard seeing someone close go through intense pain yet still go to office because her manager insisted,” wrote one Reddit user.

However, others voiced concerns about potential hiring bias.

“It’s a good initiative, but companies might think twice before hiring women. We need stronger anti-discrimination laws for this to work,” commented another.

Others countered that argument, saying the policy could normalize discussions about menstrual health and even lead to remote work options during such days — a positive step in itself.

A Progressive Step for India’s Workforce

By officially recognizing menstrual leave, Karnataka has taken a bold and empathetic step toward gender-sensitive labor reform.

It not only prioritizes women’s well-being but also opens the door for other Indian states — and possibly the central government — to follow suit.

Karnataka Government has introduced a Menstrual Leave Policy allowing one paid day per month for women employees aged 18–52, across all industries. No medical certificate is required, and the leave cannot be carried over to the next month. This makes Karnataka the first Indian state to implement such a policy.