The Maternity Benefit Act of 1961 standardizes maternity leave and benefits for working women in India, offering up to 26 weeks of leave and addressing various aspects such as payment, job security, and childcare. Amendments have expanded protections, but a need for mental health considerations remains. Ongoing revisions are essential for progress.
The Chhattisgarh High Court intervened after a woman was forced to give birth on the floor of a health center due to the absence of medical staff. The court called it a “very sorry state of affairs” and demanded a personal affidavit from the Health Department Secretary. The court also ordered the immediate suspension of the involved medical officer and an inquiry into the incident.
