MNLU Nagpur Implements Menstrual Leave Policy

Nagpur: Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU), Nagpur has introduced a menstrual leave policy for its students and female employees. While the move is being hailed across the country, all eyes are now on the state, with many wondering when the govt will announce a statewide policy on similar lines, especially since Karnataka has already implemented a legally enforceable menstrual leave policy.State health minister Prakash Abitkar, speaking during the budget session earlier this year hinted that the state would formulate a committee to take a decision in this regard. Meanwhile, MNLU Nagpur has become one of the few institutions in the state to introduce menstrual leave. Speaking to TOI, VC Vijendra Kumar said the initiative was introduced to support female students. Under the policy, students are entitled to four to five days of menstrual leave per semester, with requests handled confidentially by the hostel chief warden.

“The privacy of our female students is our topmost priority,” he said.Nidhi Telgote, chairperson of NMC Law Committee and corporator, said she supports the proposed menstrual leave policy. However, she cautioned while the proposal has several positive aspects, it could also lead to recruitment bias against women. “Along with discussing menstrual leave, the primary focus should be on ensuring proper sanitation and menstrual hygiene facilities at workplaces,” she said.

Telgote added that organisations voluntarily providing menstrual leave should be appreciated, calling it ‘an excellent initiative.

’ She also pointed to progress under the National Menstrual Hygiene Policy, including the Centre’s promotion of eco-friendly biodegradable sanitary pads through chemists. “These gradual efforts will eventually bring about significant change,” she said.The proposal also found support among working women. Speaking to TOI, Muskan Jain, a working professional, said menstrual leave should be seen as necessary support rather than privilege. “Women experiencing severe menstrual pain should not have to choose between their health and work ,” she said.