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India's Supreme Court Rejects Mandatory Menstrual Leave Petition

3/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Supreme Court of India dismissed the petition seeking mandatory menstrual leave, warning it could deter employers from hiring women.
Chief Justice Surya Kant said voluntary menstrual leave is commendable, but making it compulsory could reinforce negative stereotypes and harm women's careers, echoing Article 21 precedent.
The bench said decisions on menstrual leave should be made by policymakers, not the judiciary.

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Story summary

The Supreme Court of India dismissed the petition seeking mandatory menstrual leave, warning it could deter employers from hiring women.
Chief Justice Surya Kant said voluntary menstrual leave is commendable, but making it compulsory could reinforce negative stereotypes and harm women's careers, echoing Article 21 precedent.
The bench said decisions on menstrual leave should be made by policymakers, not the judiciary.