HC Awards Rs 10 Lakh to Woman Whose Role Was Downgraded After Maternity Leave

A High Court has ruled in favor of a woman employee whose job responsibilities were significantly reduced after she returned from maternity leave, despite her salary remaining unchanged at Rs 2.6 lakh. The court awarded her Rs 10 lakh in compensation, sending a strong message about workplace rights. The judgment clarified that maternity protection laws do not merely cover pay, but also extend to an employee's duties, rank, supervisory authority, and career advancement opportunities. The ruling reinforces that demoting a woman's role or responsibilities after maternity leave constitutes a violation of statutory protections, even if her salary is maintained.