Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Declares September 13 as Women Employees’ Day, Announces Paid Menstrual Leave

Bengaluru, Dec 2025 : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday announced that the state government will officially observe September 13 as Women Employees’ Day to recognise the invaluable contribution of women employees to government operations. The announcement was made during a women’s conference organised in Bengaluru by the All Karnataka State Government Women Employees’ Association.

Addressing the gathering, Siddaramaiah said the government is committed to supporting and empowering women employees. “We have decided to grant all women employees one day of paid menstrual leave each month,” he said, adding that discussions have been held with the Minister for Women and Child Welfare to provide dedicated space at Bal Bhavan for the association’s office and activities. He reaffirmed that September 13 will formally be designated as Women Employees’ Day.

The Chief Minister praised the active role of women in government, highlighting that women serve alongside men across all sectors, contributing equally to governance and administrative processes. He emphasised that the state government is determined to eliminate gender discrimination and ensure equal treatment in every sphere.

Siddaramaiah reflected on historical inequalities, noting that women were denied access to education in earlier times. “After the Constitution came into force, equal rights, including the right to education, were guaranteed,” he said. He pointed out that at the time of Independence, literacy in India was only 10–12 per cent, which has now risen to nearly 78 per cent, thanks to sustained efforts over the decades.

He further stressed the crucial role of women in shaping children’s character and mindset, urging them to instill rational thinking and scientific attitudes. “Awareness must be created among children to dispel superstitions and blind beliefs,” he said. Siddaramaiah called on women to cultivate rationality and scientific temper and to actively work to eliminate superstitions from society. He added that children must also be taught these values to build a progressive, equitable society.

Highlighting the importance of secular and Constitutional values, the Chief Minister said, “Society is diverse, comprising multiple castes and religions. Education must never promote caste-based discrimination but instead dismantle barriers and foster equality.” He noted that even educated professionals, including doctors and scientists, can sometimes harbour superstitions, making it vital to guide children away from such beliefs.

Siddaramaiah underscored the government’s commitment to the social and economic empowerment of women. He cited the Shakti scheme, under which 3.5 crore women receive free bus travel, describing it as a form of social capital that enables households to redirect savings toward children’s education and other essential needs.

He also noted the implementation of the recommendations of the Sixth and Seventh Pay Commissions, ensuring better remuneration and benefits for women employees. Citing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Siddaramaiah remarked that women must be empowered socially and economically for the nation to truly experience the fruits of freedom.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that these initiatives will enhance government efficiency and create a more equitable and progressive society. He urged all women employees to continue their dedicated service while promoting education, rational thinking, and social upliftment within their communities.