I am 7 month pregnant and I have applied for six month maternity leave few days back through email, which I am planning to take from the start of 9th month. I have attached the Dr. prescription along with the mail. But my employer (Owner) is not approving my leave application and denying to provide the salary during six month maternity leave. I am heading the HR department. Mine is the the first maternity case for the company. This company is a Pvt Ltd. firm and the strength in the company is approximate 100+. Please let me know the exact procedure to apply for maternity leave in private company and also the legal steps which I can take in case of denial of maternity benefit.