On the eve of the World Menstruation Day on May 26, eminent social worker Ranjeeta Priyadarshini, in a heart-touching letter to Union Minister of Labour & Employment Bhupender Yadav, demanded ‘paid leave’ to women workers during the ‘period time’. “Since women constitute nearly one-third of the total workforce in India, such a provision is necessary for them as these are the most ‘discomforting days’ for them but they have to work under compulsion,” wrote Ranjeeta.
“As a previous employee in the heavy metal industry, I have encountered numerous cases where women workers suffered during their periods while at work due to lack of access to proper toilets, restrooms, etc. Some of the most common symptoms that menstruating ladies deal with are cramps, backache, migraines, profuse bleeding, etc,” she explained.
“According to Article 15 (3) and Article 42 of the Indian Constitution, the state shall create special provisions for women providing just and humane conditions for work. And hence, my petition asking the Ministry of Labour to implement a ‘no-questions-asked’, paid monthly period leave for all women workers in the country is what necessary for a civilised country,” said Ranjeeta.
Working women in India face additional challenges because they are often unable to freely talk about periods or the pain they endure every month as it’s still a taboo in the society.
If widely introduced, women, transgenders and non-binary workers who menstruate can stand to gain direct pathways to rest when they need it most and be happier and more productive at work. Further they can find it easier to remain in the labour market. There should be no shame or stigma attached to requesting a ‘period’ leave. A monthly menstrual cycle paid leave, if passed, would provide a healthier working environment for all women workers who menstruate, she explained.
“I demand respect for me and all the women workers because we are the backbone of our Indian economy,” she wrote.
“Sign the petition and share widely,” she further appealed to one and all.