Period Leave at the Workplace: Restoring Women’s Dignity

The concept of period leave has been a subject of much debate globally, with many viewing it as a necessary step towards acknowledging the unique challenges faced by women. Recently, Odisha took a significant step forward by introducing period leave for working women in both the public and private sectors. This decision, announced during the Independence Day celebrations in Cuttack, makes Odisha the third state in India to implement such a policy, following Bihar and Kerala.

The Odisha government has granted women the option to avail a one-day period leave either on the first or the second day of their menstrual cycle. This move is a part of the state’s broader effort to enhance menstrual health policies, which was also a promise in the ruling party’s election manifesto. By officially recognizing the physical discomfort many women endure during menstruation, the government aims to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment. This initiative aligns with the broader global movement towards recognizing menstrual health as a fundamental right for women.

While the policy has been widely praised, there are still calls for clearer guidelines, particularly in how it will be implemented across different sectors. Stakeholders are urging the government to develop a comprehensive standard operating procedure (SOP) to ensure uniform application, especially in the private sector where implementation can be more challenging.

Odisha’s decision follows similar policies in Bihar and Kerala. Bihar has a more extensive policy, allowing two days of paid period leave per month for women up to the age of 45. Kerala, on the other hand, has implemented a three-day period leave policy for female students across all state universities. These states have set precedents that reflect a growing acknowledgment of menstrual health in India, a topic that has traditionally been shrouded in stigma.

Globally, the debate around period leave is complex. Countries like Japan and South Korea have long had policies in place, though they have faced criticism for potentially reinforcing gender stereotypes. In contrast, some argue that such policies are crucial for advancing women’s rights and addressing gender-specific health needs.

Despite the positive reception, the introduction of period leave has not been without its challenges. Critics argue that this policy could inadvertently reinforce negative stereotypes about women’s capabilities in the workplace. There is a concern that offering period leave might lead to increased discrimination against women in hiring and promotions, as employers might view women as less reliable due to potential absences.

Moreover, the success of this policy largely depends on its implementation. In states like Odisha, where there is significant variation in the work environments between the public and private sectors, consistent application of the policy is crucial. There is also the issue of how this policy intersects with existing labor laws, which do not currently account for menstrual leave.

“It is very welcoming that the Odisha government has taken such a step towards the wellness of women. Women go through a lot of pain during these days, especially on the first two or three days. Even a day off is a great relief to all the women who step outside their comfort zone to work and earn,” said Binduja Upadhaya, a journalist and social activist, highlighting the importance of the new policy.

“Definitely, it’s a welcoming and thoughtful step towards all the women working for their families, but at the same time, this should not be violated as everything has a positive and negative side. Since the law has been passed for women’s comfort during menstrual days, the office should also make sure that no one takes advantage of it,” said Minakshi Mohanty, a teacher, emphasizing the need for responsible use of the policy.

“Period cramps can be intensely painful, often causing mood swings that disrupt daily life. For working women, the challenge is even greater as they must manage this discomfort alongside their professional duties. The first day is particularly tough, with cramps being most severe, making it hard to focus and work effectively. Allowing leave on this day would offer much-needed relief and reflect a supportive workplace culture, easing the physical and emotional strain they endure”remarked Anita Rath, a Copy Editor at Nandighosha TV, providing a personal insight into the challenges women face during menstruation.

“I completely support and appreciate this initiative. However, my major concern is the implementation across different sectors. Laws like these often pass, but the real challenge is how start-ups and small companies implement them. I hope everyone takes this seriously and supports the step taken by the Odisha government,” said B.Shilpa, an HR Manager underlining the potential challenges in implementing the policy across various sectors.

“This law is very new and welcoming, but if we consider our mothers, they had no holidays for periods and worked 365 days without a single day off. The leave should be availed in extreme cases only where it is impossible to work. Offices need to take steps to ensure it is not misused. There should be washrooms in workplces where women employees are working” commented Manaswini Das, a social worker, bringing a historical perspective to the conversation.

 

For Odisha, the introduction of period leave is a progressive step that could pave the way for other states to follow. However, it is essential that this policy is accompanied by broader societal changes. Education around menstrual health, breaking the stigma associated with menstruation, and ensuring that women do not face professional repercussions for availing themselves of this leave are all critical components of success.

To ensure the policy’s success, it will be crucial for the government to engage with both the public and private sectors, providing clear guidelines and addressing any potential negative consequences. The policy should be seen as part of a larger movement towards gender equality, one that acknowledges and addresses the unique challenges women face in the workplace.

Odisha’s move to introduce period leave is a bold and necessary step towards restoring women’s dignity at the workplace. While there are challenges ahead, this policy has the potential to significantly improve the working conditions for women across the state, making the workplace more inclusive and supportive for all.

As Odisha moves forward with this policy, it will be important to monitor its implementation closely, ensuring that it achieves its goal of supporting women while avoiding unintended consequences.With the right approach, period leave can be a powerful tool in creating a more equitable workplace for women, restoring their dignity and ensuring their well-being.