He highlighted that Kerala has allowed such relaxation in schools and that several private companies have voluntarily introduced menstrual leave policies.Responding to the submission, the CJI Kant-led Bench said voluntary measures by employers are welcome. However, the apex court cautioned that making menstrual leave mandatory through law may have unintended consequences. "If it becomes a legal mandate, employers may start hesitating to hire women in government jobs, litigation, or other sectors. It sought directions to the Centre and state governments to introduce rules providing at least two days of menstrual leave every month.Earlier as well, the Supreme Court had taken a similar view. Chandrachud had asked the Centre to examine the feasibility of a menstrual leave policy after consulting states and other stakeholders.Disposing of that petition, the apex court had observed that mandating menstrual leave through judicial directions could discourage employers from hiring women, adding that such questions are better addressed at the governmental policy level.--IANS

Source: Economic Times March 13, 2026 13:08 UTC