The Kerala High Court has directed the state government to consider and decide within three months on a proposal to introduce a paid menstrual leave policy for female bus conductors at the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).
Justice Viju Abraham issued the order while responding to a writ petition filed by three female conductors and the Forum for Justice, an employee welfare group. The petitioners are seeking two days of paid menstrual leave each month for women conductors. The court instructed state authorities to afford a hearing to both the petitioners and KSRTC representatives before taking a final decision on the pending representation.
Constitutional Rights and Workplace Challenges
In its observation on July 23, the court described menstrual leave as a progressive welfare measure designed to address the physical and psychological demands of menstruation. Justice Abraham noted that such a policy aligns with Articles 21, 15(3), and 42 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee personal liberty, permit special provisions for women, and require just and humane working conditions.
The court highlighted the arduous nature of the job performed by female conductors in KSRTC’s operating sector, where nearly 3,000 women are employed. Conductors routinely work shifts lasting between 8 and 16 hours, remaining on their feet to collect fares and issue tickets in crowded buses. The petition detailed significant operational hurdles, including a widespread absence of clean depot restrooms equipped with running water, adequate break areas, and proper menstrual waste disposal options.
Impact on Health and Productivity
Addressing the impact of these working conditions, the court stated that severe menstrual symptoms can substantially affect a worker’s health, dignity, and job performance. Granting limited menstrual leave could help reduce presenteeism, improve workplace productivity, and build a more inclusive work environment.
The petitioners had formally submitted their request to the Kerala state government on October 30, 2025. They opted to approach the high court after the government failed to act on the submission.
Regional Precedents and Existing Policies
While Kerala already grants menstrual leave to female university students, the state has not yet extended similar provisions to public sector workers or state employees.
The filing cited comparable welfare initiatives in other regions, noting that the Karnataka government introduced one day of paid monthly menstrual leave for public and private sector female employees aged 18 to 52 in November 2025. Similar menstrual leave provisions are also operational in Bihar and Odisha.
