The Madras High Court recently criticized a magistrate for refusing maternity leave to a woman who had remarried. The court reprimanded the magistrate, stating that denying maternity leave to a woman on the grounds of remarriage is discriminatory and against the law. The case came to light when the woman, who works as an office assistant in a government department, was denied maternity leave by the magistrate. The High Court directed the magistrate to allow the woman to avail of her maternity leave as per the rules and regulations. The court emphasized that maternity leave is a fundamental right for all women, regardless of their marital status. This incident highlights the importance of upholding women’s rights in the workplace, especially when it comes to maternity benefits. The ruling by the Madras High Court sets a precedent for ensuring that women are not discriminated against based on their personal choices, including remarriage. It serves as a reminder to employers and authorities to uphold the rights of women in accordance with the law. This decision is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and ensuring that women are granted the necessary support and benefits during pregnancy and motherhood.