Bihar Becomes First State to Extend Menstrual Leave to Contractual and Outsourced Women Staff

By Mahima Katal In a significant move aimed at workplace welfare and gender-sensitive employment policies, the Bihar government has announced two days of monthly special leave for women employed on contractual and outsourcing arrangements across the state.

The decision extends a benefit that was previously available mainly to regular women government employees and is expected to benefit more than 1.5 lakh women workers employed through contractual appointments, BELTRON and outsourcing agencies.

According to the state government, Bihar has become the first state in India to extend menstrual leave benefits to women working under contractual and outsourcing systems.

Extension of Existing Policy

Bihar had introduced special leave for regular women government employees in 1992 during the tenure of former chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav. Under the policy, women employees were entitled to two days of leave every month.

With the latest decision, the state has expanded the benefit to a larger section of women workers who were previously excluded from the policy despite working in government-linked systems.

The announcement was made through the BJP’s official social media platforms and later circulated across government communication channels.

Comes Amid Debate on Working Hours

The move comes amid recent discussions over work timings for women employees in Bihar.

A communication reportedly issued from the Chief Secretary’s office had stated that regular women government employees would work until 5 pm, while contractual and outsourced women staff would remain on duty until 6 pm. The issue had sparked criticism and debate over unequal workplace conditions.

The new leave policy is being seen as an attempt to address concerns surrounding workplace welfare, dignity and health of women employees.

Women’s Groups Welcome Decision

Several women’s organisations and employee groups welcomed the decision, calling it an important step towards recognising menstrual health as a workplace issue.

Supporters of the policy argue that menstrual leave promotes dignity, health and productivity for women employees, especially for those working in demanding public service roles.

Supreme Court Had Earlier Declined PIL

The development comes against the backdrop of a wider national debate on menstrual leave policies.

Recently, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a Public Interest Litigation seeking directions for a nationwide menstrual leave policy for women workers and students. The court observed that such matters fall within the domain of policy-making and are best decided by governments and legislatures.

While the Centre has not introduced a national framework on menstrual leave, several states and private organisations have started adopting their own policies.

Earlier this year, Karnataka also announced a menstrual leave policy for women employees in government and private sectors, providing one day of leave per month.

With Bihar’s latest decision, the debate around menstrual leave and gender-inclusive workplace policies is expected to gain further momentum across the country.