Karnataka Plans Menstrual Leave for Students Under New Bill

A new proposal in Karnataka aims to extend menstrual leave benefits to school, college and university students, marking a major shift in the state’s policy on menstrual health. The draft Karnataka Working Women Wellbeing Bill, 2025 introduces attendance relaxation, penalty provisions and broader protections for menstruating persons in academic and professional settings.

Key Provisions of the Proposed Legislation

The Bill proposes up to two days of menstrual leave per month for students, in addition to a 2 per cent attendance relaxation. It widens the scope of earlier government orders that applied mainly to working women, extending benefits to girls, women, transgender persons and gender-queer individuals. No medical certificate will be required to avail the leave, with a simple written request deemed sufficient.

Leave Rules and Operational Guidelines

The draft caps menstrual leave at twelve days per year and states that unused leave cannot be carried forward. If a period coincides with a Sunday or public holiday, only a single day of leave may be taken. Leave cannot overlap with any other sanctioned leave. Individuals may opt to work from home through videoconferencing if permitted by their institution.

Penalty for Denial or Discrimination

The Bill introduces a fine of up to Rs 5,000 for employers or educational institutions that deny menstrual leave or discriminate against those availing it. The clause applies across government, private and educational sectors. Officials are also prohibited from publicising a person’s leave details.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The proposal forms part of the Karnataka Working Women Wellbeing Bill, 2025.
• Maximum menstrual leave: 12 days per calendar year with no carry-forward.
• Penalty for denial or discrimination: up to Rs 5,000.
• The Bill covers students, employees and transgender and gender-queer persons.

Monitoring Mechanism and Implementation

A Karnataka Women Wellbeing Authority is proposed to oversee enforcement. Chaired by the head of the Karnataka Commission for Women, the body will conduct inquiries, handle grievances and issue orders. Labour officers will carry out inspections and report on compliance. The legislation aims to institutionalise menstrual health support and expand access to leave benefits across the state.