Can My Friend Take 8 Months Unpaid Maternity Leave at a Private Firm?

Hi, one of my friends is pregnant. If she wants to take leave for 8 months without pay, can she do so? She is working with a private limited firm.

Thank you.

Hi all, Please let me know if a woman working in a Pvt. Ltd. company since 09/02/12, who is now pregnant and wants to take 8 months of unpaid leave, is eligible for such leave. Can the employer reject her application? Her net salary is Rs. 18,000 per month.

Thanks

Maternity Leave and Additional Leave Options

Leave other than those prescribed under the Maternity Benefit Act or any other statutory leave is not a right of the employee. It is advisable to consult with the employer. If the employer agrees, then it will be acceptable.

Dear Geet,

Maternity Leave Eligibility

She is eligible for Maternity Leave of 12 weeks. However, the employer may be reluctant to grant more leave at the outset and in one go. In any case, an 8-month leave (even without pay) is rare and may not be allowed under their company policy. What one can do is avail the statutory leaves as per the Act (which cannot be denied); and then, if the need arises on the basis of medical grounds (or otherwise), apply for appropriate leave subsequently.

That is what I can suggest. Other members may be better able to provide more ideas or suggestions on this issue.

Warm regards.

Depends on your employer; however, 90 days are prevalent.

Regards