Being a working mother in a developing country like India is often a challenge. I recently experienced an unexpected hurdle during my pregnancy which led to early commencement of my maternity leave, two months ahead of the expected delivery date. Today, my four-month-old baby relies entirely on me for care and nourishment. Despite this, attempts to request an additional two months of unpaid leave were met with disregard by my company, demonstrating a lack of support for working mothers.

This predicament is not unique to me. Many working mothers across India face inadequate support from their workplaces during critical times of their child's growth. According to a 2018 study conducted by Oxfam India, only about 27% of Indian women are in the active workforce, and one of the main reasons for this alarmingly low percentage is the lack of creche facilities in offices.

We implore the Indian government to make creche facilities mandatory in all workplaces and ensure their functionality. Investing in childcare units at workplaces not only supports working mothers but also aids in achieving gender equality in the workplace.

Our plea is not for added privileges, but for the basic human rights of care for children and respect for working mothers, who should not have to choose between their career and their children. It is time our workplaces reflect the evolving societal needs.

Sign this petition to mandate creche facilities in all workplaces across India. Make our voice heard and support the rights of working mothers.