In a path-breaking move, the Kerala High Court has asked the state government to consider providing menstrual leave to women conductors employed in the state-run KSRTC.
This, the HC says, would promote employee welfare, enhance productivity, reduce absenteeism and foster a more inclusive workplace.
"A limited provision for menstrual leave would promote employee welfare, reduce absenteeism, enhance productivity, and foster a more inclusive workplace," the court said.
"In view of the nature of their duties and working conditions, the government may consider introducing an appropriate policy providing menstrual leave to women conductors, subject to such conditions and safeguards as may be deemed appropriate," it added.
The suggestion came up while considering a joint plea filed by three women conductors of the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation and an organisation working for the welfare of its employees and their families. It was contended that women conductors have to work 8 to 16 hours a day and must constantly move through crowded buses to issue tickets and collect fares. During menstruation, these women conductors face significant challenges that include lack of access to clean toilet facilities with water at various depots, insufficient rest periods and an inadequate disposal system for menstrual products. Eventually, this leads to physical discomfort, health issues and emotional distress.
The petitioners had also told the court that around 3,000 women staff work in the operating sector of KSRTC. Despite the pleas to the government, no decision had been taken on it.
"Women conductors in KSRTC perform physically demanding duties involving prolonged standing, continuous movement, long working hours, and limited access to hygienic restroom facilities," the court mentioned.
The court directed the government to consider and pass orders on the representation without delay, preferably within three months.
(With agency inputs)
