Menstruation not a disability, opposes mandatory 'paid leave' policy: Minister Smriti Irani
New Delhi, December 13: Union Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani addressed the Rajya Sabha, asserting that menstruation should not be viewed as a disability warranting a 'paid leave' policy in workplaces. In response to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) member Manoj Kumar Jha's query about menstrual hygiene policy, Irani emphasized that menstruation is a natural part of a woman's life journey and not a hindrance.
She highlighted, "As a menstruating woman, it's not a handicap; it's a natural process... We shouldn't endorse issues that deny equal opportunities to women based on someone else's perspective on menstruation."
Irani further mentioned that the government isn't considering making paid menstrual leave mandatory for all workplaces. She acknowledged that while some individuals may experience severe discomfort during menstruation, the majority can manage with medication.
The minister shed light on the stigma surrounding menstruation, acknowledging the challenges faced by menstruating individuals due to social taboos, leading to harassment and exclusion. She stressed the importance of addressing emotional and physical changes during menstruation, especially for young girls facing it for the first time.
Regarding sanitary napkins' safety, Irani assured their availability at affordable rates through Jan Aushadi Kendra and mentioned no complaints regarding their quality. She also highlighted protocols for sanitary product disposal introduced by the Jal Shakti ministry after 2014.
The government has rolled out multiple initiatives promoting menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls, such as the Scheme for Promotion of Menstrual Hygiene under the National Health Mission and National Guidelines on Menstrual Hygiene Management as part of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
- With inputs from agencies
