In a groundbreaking decision, the labour commissioner of Pune has mandated a Baner-based information technology (IT) company to honor maternity leave benefits for one of its HR managers. The ruling stems from a complaint filed by the HR manager, Krutakshi Jain, who alleged that the company unjustly terminated her employment to avoid providing maternity leave benefits.
Jain’s case has garnered attention as it raises significant implications regarding maternity rights in the workplace. The complainant contends that the company, upon learning of her pregnancy on February 14, 2023, swiftly terminated her services on February 24, 2023, thus sidestepping its obligation to grant maternity leave benefits.
Upon thorough review, the labour commissioner found merit in Jain’s claims and ruled in her favor. The directive mandates the IT company not only to provide monetary maternity benefits to Jain but also to disburse a medical bonus within seven days.
The ruling serves as a pivotal moment emphasizing the importance of protecting maternity rights and sending a clear message against any attempts to deny these entitlements to expecting mothers. It also serves as a stark reminder to employers about their legal obligations towards pregnant employees and the potential repercussions of failing to comply with these obligations.
The decision has received praise from the Forum for Information Technology Employees (FITE), an organization advocating for the rights of IT employees. Pavanjeet Mane, president of FITE, emphasized the significance of the ruling, stating that companies attempting to remove female employees during pregnancy to deny maternity benefits can be challenged through avenues like approaching the labour commissioner for justice.
Mane believes that this landmark case will bolster the morale of female employees facing similar issues, providing them with the confidence to seek justice through channels such as FITE.
