Confused About Maternity Leave Duration: Am I Entitled to 12 Weeks or Just 6?

Dear Members,

I have been informed by my company's HR that "The maximum period an employee is entitled to maternity benefit is 12 weeks, of which not more than 6 weeks shall precede the date of the expected delivery of the child."

I understand that, in total, I can avail 12 weeks of paid Maternity Leave. However, if any complications arise and require maternity leave before delivery, it should not exceed 6 weeks (paid), with the remaining 6 weeks to be taken post-delivery.

However, my HR confirmed to me that, in total, I can avail only 6 weeks of leave, and any further extension of leave would be considered as Leave Without Pay (LWP).

I request your comments and corrections if I have misinterpreted the clause.

Warm regards,
Charu

Your HR is correct. Six weeks maximum is the limit for pre and post-maternity. If sickness arises after delivery, you can have one month of additional leave.

Regards,
Mangesh

It is not compulsory that 6 weeks should precede the date of delivery, but the employee can take the entire 12 weeks after delivery as well. Similarly, the medical bonus is Rs. 2500.

Regards,
Madhu.T.K