Though the issue appears to be closed, the question you raised remains. Thanks for posting and creating an awareness of such a situation.
Maternity Benefits and Childcare Under Indian Labour Laws
As far as Indian Labour Laws and government rules for maternity benefits and childcare are concerned, it is all about whether the female employee requires rest, leave, and support for confinement and delivery, and care for the child. The conception, whether it is legal or illegal, is beyond the question. It is the individual's right. She might have become pregnant by fertility treatment, by consensual sex without marriage, or rape. The fact of carrying a child entitles her to the maternity benefits.
Ethics, Country-Specific Rules, and Company Policies
- It should be ensured whether the country's rules regarding moral behavior/crimes interfere with an individual's contract of employment.
- Whether the employer should take cognizance of such happenings. When it is not so, the employer is acting beyond his powers.
- Unless the facts are brought on record by recording evidence, such facts are difficult to take action on.
- In these days of single mothers, having a child without wedlock, if your company continues with old morals, the company will end up winding up.
We don't recommend immorality, but changes in the workplace should be noted by the company.
Regards,
Priyan