Karnataka has become India’s first state to offer paid menstrual leave to all women in formal jobs, challenging long-standing taboos in South Asia and reigniting debate over workplace equality and stigma.
WEBDESK – MediaBites – November 14, 2025
In a region where menstruation remains heavily stigmatized, the southern Indian state of Karnataka has taken a landmark step by becoming the first in the country to offer paid menstrual leave to all women working in the formal sector. The move is being praised as a significant breakthrough for women’s health and workplace equality in South Asia, where cultural silence around menstrual cycles continues to affect millions.
Across Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, discussions about menstruation are often considered taboo. Women routinely buy sanitary pads wrapped in paper to avoid being seen, and many face discrimination at home, in schools, and in workplaces simply for having a natural biological cycle. Karnataka’s decision cuts directly into this long-standing stigma.
Under the new policy, women aged 18 to 52 employed in government and private companies can take one day of paid menstrual leave per month without providing a medical certificate. The benefit cannot be carried forward. Officials say the policy will cover an estimated 350,000 to 400,000 women in the formal workforce.
But the state’s six million women in the informal sector — including domestic workers, gig workers and daily-wage laborers — remain excluded. Experts argue the next step should be expanding the policy to ensure broader equity.
Still, Karnataka stands apart for including the private sector, a rarity even in India. Other states such as Bihar, Odisha and Kerala provide menstrual leave, but only for government or academic staff.
Reactions to the policy have been mixed. Karnataka Labour Minister Santosh Lad called the decision “one of the most progressive for women,” while union leaders in the garment sector welcomed the additional relief. But some female professionals say the stigma around menstruation may discourage women from using the leave.
“How can one ask for menstrual leave when we don’t even speak openly about menstruation?” said Anunita Kundu, a software manager. Others argue it reinforces stereotypes about women’s capabilities.
Social scientists say the deeper challenge is dismantling shame. “It has facilitated women, but it has not empowered them,” said researcher Pushpendra.
Supporters believe the policy may finally open long-silenced conversations. “Calling it menstrual leave helps fight the stigma,” said Bengaluru teacher Shreya Shree.
Karnataka’s decision marks a bold attempt to normalize women’s health needs — and may set the stage for wider reform across South Asia.
