Women not on same page on period leaves

HYDERABAD: Opinions varied on a plea filed in the apex court seeking a direction to all the states to frame rules for menstrual leaves. The plea was mentioned for urgent listing before a bench headed by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, which said it would be listed on February 24.

Vox Pop:

It is definitely a good movie, but the choice must be women’s. The major reason for girls dropping out of government schools is because of unhygienic washrooms. Students are taking five-day leaves during menstruation due to a
lack of water supply.

P. A. Devi, activist

Giving leaves should not be mandatory as many companies work on a thin
budget. Women can’t take leave and then demand equal status as men. Period
leaves can be considered medical emergencies or medical leaves.

Deepikan Narayan Bhardwaj, men’s rights activist

The problems faced during menstruation are underrated. It would be a big help to students if leaves are granted during menstruation. If there are exams held on that day, a comfortable environment must be made available where they have proper back support, and enough space to sit at their convenience.

Sreelekha L., student

Many years ago menstruation was considered a disease. I was also made to sit
in one corner and sleep on the ground. Time has changed now and women must
be given the proper rest they need during menstruation as they suffer from severe body pain and also feel mentally disturbed. Loss of pay must also be
avoided.

Sudha Dave, 78, retired employee

It would definitely be a good move if two days of paid leave is granted as productivity reduces during these days. Resuming work after taking complete
rest would not only increase productivity but also be helpful mentally. There is a possibility of this option being misused. A check on the same is advisable.

Pratiksha Joshi, MNC employee

I do not think it is a good move as this would allow many teachers to go on leave simultaneously, increasing the workload of other teachers. It is not like we are asking you to work in a forest, you have a table and a chair and you can work after taking a painkiller if needed.

Sangeeta Raghuram, school principal

I am strong and do not have any issues. However, some women do suffer from
menstrual pain. I welcome the decision of paid leave during menstruation.
Also, this topic will finally be discussed openly in our conservative society.

B. Saisri, DCP, LB Nagar

I don’t think we women have to worry about not being preferred for jobs or losing out on opportunities once menstrual leaves are made mandatory. Statistics show that companies are well aware that women work harder than men and are always looking to hire more of them, especially for entry-level/subordinate roles.

Kalpana Kumari, homemaker