Navigating Maternity Leave: Am I Ethically Entitled to 6 Months at My MNC?

Hi, I am working for an MNC. I am going to take maternity leave. As per company policy, it's 4 months (114 days) only; however, the government has changed it to 6 months for all private sectors. When I checked with the HR team, I got the following answer:

“The maternity bill has just been passed in Rajya Sabha and the same is yet to be enacted. Our internal policy will be amended once it is enacted as law. Until then, our current policy guidelines will hold valid.”

Please let me know, am I eligible for 6 months leave ethically?

Regards,
Leena

Dear Leena,

Your HR department is correct. You are entitled to the leave as per the old rules only. The new provisions will be effective only when the Maternity Benefit Act is amended and notified by the Government.

Thanks & Regards,
Avika