Activists demands implementation of M&P

APP

Islamabad: Civil society activists have demanded enforcement of the “Maternity and Paternity Leave Law (M&P).” According to Dr. Shafqat Munir, a policy analyst and researcher, despite the law passing in January 2020, it remains inactive. The Establishment Division has neither formulated implementation rules nor prompted other government entities and corporations to do so, even after over two years have passed.

According to the bill, the aims and objectives of this law are that working women are a growing reality in Pakistan. In order to facilitate women to fulfill the obligations of motherhood without having to compromise on their professional growth, Article 37 (e) of the Constitution of Pakistan provides maternity benefits to women and entitles them to leave.

This bill aims to provide expectant mothers with the maximum amount required to leave in order to facilitate them. On the other hand, the law does not mandate the provision of paternity leave for male employees, where the need for the institutionalization of such a support structure is no different. Research suggests that enabling fathers to look after their newborn children has positive knock-on effects.

The early close relationship between father and child has long-term implications. This bill seeks to provide fathers with the opportunity to be there at a crucial time without the added responsibility of the workplace.