Delhi HC Directs PIL to Centre Seeking Paid Period Leave
On Monday Delhi High Court directed to the Centre and the Delhi Government the Public Interest Litigation (PIL), which seeks paid leave for women employees during the menstruation period, for consideration as a representation.
The division bench of the High Court presided by Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Prateek Jalan asked concerned authorities to treat the petition in accordance with the law and as early as possible, in a practical manner.
The Delhi Labor Union filed a petition by advocate Rajeev Agarwal seeking 4 days of paid leave every month for women employees including outsourcing, contractual, and daily wage workers. The petition also seeks overtime pay for women employees in case they are ok to work during their periods.
The petition shed light on the fact that the physical discomfort as well as emotional stress that a significant number of women employees undergo during menstruation is never given any thought. The petition also stressed how this phenomenon is to be considered taboo and is not discussed properly. Making it difficult for women employees to voice their grievances.
The petition also seeks the creation of an agency for women employees to openly speak for mensuration benefits.
