A private company in Pakistan has been fined Rs1.2 million after it was found guilty of terminating a female employee during her approved maternity leave. The decision was issued by the Federal Ombudsperson for Protection Against Harassment, highlighting the importance of safeguarding women’s workplace rights.
According to the ruling, the employee was working in the accounting department when her employment was abruptly terminated through a phone call while she was on officially approved maternity leave. The case was brought before FOSPAH after the employee challenged the decision.
The ruling, issued by Federal Ombudsperson Fozia Waqar, stated that dismissing a woman during maternity leave constitutes harmful treatment and violates principles of workplace equality and fairness. The decision emphasized that maternity leave is a legally protected right that must be respected by employers.
FOSPAH noted that such actions amount to gender-based discrimination and psychological harassment under applicable laws. The ruling underscored that employers have a responsibility to provide a safe and supportive work environment for female employees, particularly during maternity leave.
In addition to the financial penalty, the private company has been directed to implement comprehensive corrective measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. These measures are expected to strengthen workplace policies related to employee rights and gender equality.
The ombudsperson also ordered the organization not to take any retaliatory action against the complainant. The directive seeks to ensure that the employee can exercise her legal rights without fear of further discrimination or workplace consequences.
