India's Supreme Court has rejected a petition requesting menstrual leave for working women and students. The two-judge bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, expressed concerns that mandating such leave could negatively impact women's career growth and employability. Judges suggested that mandatory leave might lead employers to perceive women as not being at par with male colleagues, potentially making them hesitant to hire women.
The court indicated that while it would not mandate a national policy, the government could explore such options in consultation with stakeholders. The decision reignites a long-standing debate in India, where menstruation remains a sensitive topic. While some argue for menstrual leave to support women's health and well-being, others, like the court, believe it could reinforce gender stereotypes and disadvantage women in the workforce. Several Indian states and private companies, including Zomato and RPG Group, have already implemented varying forms of menstrual leave policies.