A private company has been ordered to reinstate an employee and pay a Rs500,000 fine after dismissing her during approved maternity leave, according to a ruling by the Federal Ombudsperson Secretariat for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH).
The decision reinforces legal protections for working women and emphasizes that employees cannot be dismissed while availing maternity leave approved under applicable workplace regulations.
Employee Dismissed Despite Approved Leave
According to the FOSPAH ruling, the employee had been granted maternity leave by her employer. However, she was later instructed to report to work during her leave period.
When she was unable to return because she was on approved maternity leave, the company terminated her employment, prompting her to seek legal relief.
FOSPAH Orders Reinstatement
After reviewing the case, FOSPAH ruled in favor of the employee, directing the private company to reinstate her to her position.
The ombudsperson also imposed a Rs500,000 penalty on the employer, finding that the dismissal violated the employee’s rights during maternity leave.
Decision Highlights Workplace Rights
The ruling highlights the legal protections available to women employees during maternity leave and underscores employers’ responsibility to comply with Pakistan’s labor laws and workplace regulations.
The decision also serves as a reminder that approved maternity leave is a protected employment right and that employers may face legal consequences for unlawful termination during this period.
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