The only legislation governing maternity leave is the one called Maternity Benefit Act and is a central Act covering Karnataka also. According to this Act women employees are eligible for 12 weeks maternity leave. This is paid leave. In case of complications arising out of child birth, an additional one month leave can also be given subject to production of proof in this regard. In addition to this there is a provision of paying Rs 3500 as maternity bonus if no post natal care is given to the employee by the employer. There is no provision for paternity leave in any labour legislation in India.
Madhu.T.K