Karnataka plans menstrual leave for students, with fines for schools that deny it

India Dec 10, 2025

Karnataka is set to roll out a new law giving school, college, and university students up to two days of menstrual leave each month, plus a 2% attendance relaxation.
The bill also covers transgender and gender-queer students and builds on an earlier policy that granted paid menstrual leave to working women.
No medical certificates will be needed—just apply when you need it.

Why does it matter?

This move puts Karnataka ahead in supporting menstrual health rights for young people across genders.
Schools or colleges refusing this leave could face fines up to ₹5,000.
The bill even allows remote work during your period if you want it, for employees.
It's a big step toward making campuses more inclusive and understanding about periods.