The Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of granting child-care leaves to mothers of disabled children underscores the imperative of ensuring gender equality and inclusivity in the workforce.
In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of India has affirmed the rights of working mothers caring for children with disabilities, emphasizing the state’s constitutional obligation to ensure gender equality in the workforce. The verdict underscores the importance of providing child-care leaves (CCLs) to women facing unique caregiving challenges.
The apex court’s directive follows a case wherein a mother, employed as an assistant professor, sought CCL to care for her son with a genetic disorder. Exhausting her sanctioned leaves for her son’s treatment, she petitioned for CCL, highlighting the necessity for mothers of children with special needs to balance work and caregiving responsibilities.
Recognizing the gravity of the issue, the court ordered the formation of a committee, chaired by the chief secretary of Himachal Pradesh, to address the policy on granting CCLs to working women with disabled children. This move reflects a commitment to align state policies with constitutional provisions and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
The judgment underscores that denying CCLs to mothers of children with disabilities not only undermines gender equality but also forces women to compromise their careers. The court emphasized that enabling working mothers to fulfill their caregiving duties is crucial for inclusive workforce participation and societal well-being.
As the case gains attention, it highlights the need for comprehensive policy reforms to support working parents, especially those caring for children with special needs. The court’s directive to revise CCL policies and ensure compliance with disability rights legislation sets a precedent for other states to follow suit.
Ultimately, the verdict reaffirms the state’s responsibility to uphold the rights of vulnerable populations and promote gender-inclusive policies in the workforce.
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