Arunachal Congress MLA seeks menstrual leave for women

Congress legislator in the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Ninong Ering, moved a Private Member’s Bill seeking menstrual leave for women in the state.

Moving the Bill, he said that women and girls should be given leave at least on the first day of their menstrual cycle, as it could be troublesome for them to work. He argued that if a day’s leave, they will be able to discharge their duties with more dedication.

Ering pointed out that countries like Italy and Japan, as well as in the states of Kerala and Bihar, have made such provisions for women. He reminded the Bharatiya Janata Party that its victory in the assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarkhand, Goa and Manipur was due to women.

The state’s Women and Child Development Minister Alo Libhang that a decision on the proposal would be taken after discussion with stakeholders, including health department, education department, State Women’s Commission and other organisations. He added that even women legislators would be consulted before taking a decision on the menstrual leave for women.

Ering withdrew the Bill after the Minister’s assurance.