Karnataka HC (File Photo)
BENGALURU: A group of 15 women working in managerial positions in various private establishments in Bengaluru moved Karnataka HC on March 23 against the state govt’s menstrual leave order.On Nov 20, 2025, Karnataka issued an order providing one day of paid menstrual leave each month.
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The petitioners contended that the distinction made between men and women in granting this special leave had no rational connection to the goal of achieving workplace equality. They argued that the compulsory leave could lead to bias against hiring of women, causing employers to perceive them as less capable than men.The petitioners said the notification violated Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to equality.
Rather than promoting equality, it reinforced stereotypes portraying women as weaker, thereby undermining the very objective of equality laws, they argued.The policy was an act of “benevolent sexism”, which, under the guise of protection, reinforced paternalistic attitudes, theyasserted.The matter was listed before Justice Anant Ramanath Hegde, who is hearing petitions filed by the employers’ association opposing the govt notification.
