Pregnancy and Job Security: Can I Be Fired for Non-Performance at My Startup?

Can I be fired during pregnancy due to non-performance? I work for a startup as a software developer and have been with the company for 9 months. The company does have maternity benefits. Also, how soon can I go on maternity leave?

Have you formally informed your management of the fact of your pregnancy before your termination? If yes, the company cannot terminate your services anytime during pregnancy for whatever reason.

You can avail of maternity leave benefits at the earliest by 8 weeks before the date of expected delivery as certified by a doctor.

I have verbally informed my manager, but he does not care much. Do I need to give anything in writing?

Can a pregnant woman be terminated because of a performance issue? I have my performance review due in May, and my due date is in June. I am worried that my manager will put a bad word against me.

Please submit an application informing the company of your pregnancy. As the learned member above has stated, during pregnancy, you cannot be terminated from employment. However, are there any real non-performance issues? If so, one needs to avoid getting into non-performance issues. Currently, during pregnancy, there is legal protection for female employees.

No, there are no non-performance issues. However, my manager is difficult to work with, which is straining our relationship. I am employed at a startup where we lack defined processes. What type of written application should I submit? Is an email sufficient?

Please let me know if you need further assistance.

Sorry, I mistook the information by oversight as if you were already terminated. Do submit the form forthwith as suggested by Mr. Rao. Ensure whether the MB Act, 1961 is applicable to your establishment.

It is better for you not to worry about the job or the inimical attitude of your manager during the crucial stage of motherhood. Life does not end with a job.

As stated earlier, ask your HR department. I am sure that other lady employees would have availed of maternity leave. Just discreetly check in with your friends. The company is bound by provisions of the Maternity Act.