Ranjeeta Priyadarshini, a social activist from Odisha, recently made headlines by advocating for paid menstrual leave during the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) ‘Summit of the Future’ event in New York. As a tireless champion of women’s rights, she has gained international recognition for her campaign to secure 1-2 days of paid menstrual leave for women in the workplace. Her advocacy, grounded in both personal experience and constitutional principles, has resonated globally and led to policy changes in several countries.
Advocating for Change on a Global Platform
Ranjeeta’s presence at the UNGA was not her first foray into international advocacy. In her speech, she emphasized the critical need for 1-2 days of paid menstrual leave for women, arguing that this would enable them to take time off without the fear of financial loss. She addressed over 40 prime ministers, presidents, and ministers, expressing her gratitude for existing policies and urging further reforms. “No woman will ever want to take leave thinking her salary will be deducted,” she explained, emphasizing the financial stress that often prevents women from seeking rest during menstruation.
Her campaign is rooted in Articles 15(3) and 42 of the Indian Constitution, which ensure humane working conditions for women. Ranjeeta’s advocacy aims to bring global attention to the fact that menstruation is not just a personal issue but a workplace issue that deserves legal recognition.
Progress in India: Odisha and Karnataka Leading the Way
Ranjeeta’s efforts have already borne fruit in her home state of Odisha. On August 15, 2023, the Odisha government announced a one-day paid menstrual leave policy for women in both government and private sectors. The leave can be taken on either the first or second day of a woman’s menstrual cycle, depending on her preference. This policy marks a significant step in recognizing women’s health needs at the workplace.
Karnataka followed suit, offering six paid menstrual leave days per year. While Ranjeeta welcomed this development, she has urged the state government to increase the number of paid leaves to 12 annually, reflecting her belief that more comprehensive support is necessary for women.
Personal Struggles Inspiring Global Change
Ranjeeta’s passion for this cause stems from her own experiences. She recounted a time when she faced humiliation from her manager after requesting leave due to menstrual cramps, ultimately leading to her resignation. This incident ignited her determination to fight for a more inclusive workplace environment, not only for herself but for all women.
Her personal story has since catalyzed a movement, one that has resulted in the implementation of paid menstrual leave in 30 establishments across India and 27 international organizations. Countries such as Kenya, Sri Lanka, and the UAE have also adopted similar policies, showcasing the global impact of her advocacy. Ranjeeta’s efforts have created ripples across the world, bringing to light the urgent need for menstrual health considerations in workplace policies.
Documenting the Journey: A Book and Film on the Horizon
Ranjeeta’s remarkable journey and the momentum behind her campaign have been chronicled in the book Story of a Young Woman Changemaker: Paid Period Leave Companion to Female Workers, authored by Pradeep Kumar Singh. Published by EvincePub Publishing, the book was launched on October 14, 2023, by Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel in Bengaluru. The book highlights her activism and provides insights into the evolution of the paid period leave movement.
Additionally, her advocacy is set to inspire a Bollywood film, further raising awareness about the need for menstrual leave in workplaces. This cinematic portrayal aims to reach a broader audience, bringing her mission into mainstream discourse and potentially influencing cultural perceptions.
International Recognition and Conferences
Ranjeeta’s efforts were further recognized when she organized the International Conference on Paid Period Leave, held on July 5, 2024, at the Constitutional Club of India in New Delhi. Representatives from 20 countries attended, underscoring the global significance of the issue. Prominent speakers included Dr. Rinchen Chophel, Director General of SAIEVAC and Vice Chair of the UN CRC, as well as the Managing Director of Bu Abdullah Group, UAE.
This conference marked a pivotal moment in the campaign for paid menstrual leave, as it allowed for the exchange of ideas and best practices from countries that have implemented similar policies. It also highlighted the increasing global attention on women’s workplace rights and the need for inclusive policies that account for menstruation-related challenges such as cramps, migraines, and backaches.
A Global Movement for Inclusive Workplaces
Ranjeeta Priyadarshini’s tireless advocacy for paid menstrual leave is more than just a campaign—it is a call for humane and inclusive workplaces that recognize the physical challenges faced by women. Her efforts have led to significant policy changes in India and abroad, and her work continues to inspire others to join the movement. As more countries and organizations adopt paid menstrual leave policies, Ranjeeta’s mission stands as a powerful example of how grassroots activism can bring about meaningful change on a global scale.
(With inputs from agencies)
