As per news report related to The Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act 2017 makes it mandatory for establishment employing 50 or more people to provide for Creche facility effective from 1st July 2017. Under the new law, employers failing to provide the facility could attract a one-year jail term and/or a fine. In this regard, please provide the following details:
1. Is it mandatory for the companies to provide creche services for its employees under Maternity Benefit Act 2017?
a) If yes, then who must bear the cost incurred, the employer or employee? Please provide complete details related to this and also provide clear copies of the order or any other documents related to this.
b) Has the ministry issued any rules for employers under Maternity Benefit Act 2017? What are the penalties for not complying with the rules? Does the law or the rules specify any other punitive measures for not complying with the rules regarding creche facilities? Please provide clear copies related to this.
2. It is my understanding that the bill is gender-neutral, in the sense that it will also allow fathers to take their children to the crèche, if it’s far from the mother’s workplace. The crèche can be set up in the establishment’s premises or two or more firms within 500 meters can pool their resources and create a community crèche. Please verify the accuracy statement and provide related documents.
3. How many cases have been registered till date against employers for disobeying Creche Services under Maternity Benefit Act . Please provide related documents.
4. Please provide the lists of Employers who are giving Creche Services to their employees.