Do Sundays & Paid Holidays Count for Maternity Benefit?

A practical guide for HR teams—with FAQ, statutory position, and a landmark Supreme Court ruling.

Karma Management frequently receives queries from clients on maternity benefit computation and eligibility—especially whether Sundays and paid holidays are to be included. Below is a consolidated explainer with an HR-ready FAQ and compliance checklist.

Landmark Ruling Supporting Inclusion of Sundays/Rest Days

The Supreme Court in B. Shah v. Presiding Officer, Labour Court, Coimbatore & Ors., CA No. 1649/1975 (12 Oct 1977), held that a woman employee is entitled to maternity benefit at 100% of the wages she previously earned, including the benefit of wages for all Sundays and rest days within the pre- and post-delivery entitlement periods.

Maternity Benefit — HR FAQ (Quick Answers)

Computation Principle (Inclusion of Sundays & Paid Holidays)

For the actual period of absence—covering up to 8 weeks preceding and including the day of delivery, and the post-delivery entitlement—maternity benefit equals 100% of wages (as per Sec. 3(n) of the Act) and includes all Sundays/paid rest days in those periods.

Karma Management – Operational Support on the Maternity Benefit Act

• Guiding proper applications & documentation for maternity leave.
• Ensuring benefits are paid for all eligible days leading up to delivery and on resumption.
• Filing all statutory forms/returns within timelines.
• Coordinating medical certification and audit-ready records.