1. What is the purpose of the Maternity Benefits Act of 1961?
The Maternity Benefits Act of 1961 ensures that women employees are entitled to paid leave during maternity, childbirth, and postnatal care. It mandates maternity leave and benefits for women working in establishments with 10 or more employees.
2. How long is maternity leave provided under Indian law?
Under the Maternity Benefits (Amendment) Act of 2017, biological mothers are entitled to 26 weeks of maternity leave, while adoptive and commissioning mothers are entitled to 12 weeks.
3. What is the Equal Remuneration Act of 1976?
The Equal Remuneration Act ensures that men and women are paid equally for the same work or work of similar nature. It prohibits discrimination based on gender in the payment of wages and other benefits.
4. What is the Factories Act of 1948 and how does it protect women workers?
The Factories Act regulates working conditions in factories, including working hours, safety, and welfare measures for workers. It includes provisions specifically for women workers, such as restrictions on night shifts and certain hazardous work environments.
5. Can women workers be asked to work in hazardous environments?
No, the Factories Act of 1948 prohibits women from working in certain hazardous environments or carrying heavy weights in factories.
6. What protections does the Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act of 2013 provide?
This law mandates that employers establish an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to address complaints of sexual harassment in the workplace. It ensures women employees a safe working environment free from harassment.
7. What is the Minimum Wages Act of 1948?
The Minimum Wages Act ensures that workers, including women, are paid no less than the minimum wage determined by the government for their specific sector or industry. The act is aimed at protecting workers from exploitation.
8. Are women entitled to paid leave under labor laws in India?
Yes, women workers are entitled to paid leave under various labor laws, including sick leave, casual leave, and maternity leave, depending on the nature of their employment and the industry.
9. What should an employer do to ensure compliance with the Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act?
Employers are required to form an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) with a female member as the presiding officer, organise awareness programs, and take prompt action in cases of sexual harassment.
10. What rights do women have under the Minimum Wages Act?
Under the Minimum Wages Act, women workers are entitled to receive wages that meet or exceed the minimum wage rate set by the government. They also have the right to be paid on time and in full for their work.