Leh: While women’s empowerment and dignity are often invoked as powerful ideals in public discourse, serious questions have emerged over their implementation within the Himalayan Institute of Alternative Ladakh (HIAL), founded by Sonam Wangchuk. The institute is facing labour court proceedings following a complaint by its former employee, Amina Khatoon, alleging denial of statutory maternity benefits and unfair treatment following childbirth.
According to the complaint filed before the Court of the Assistant Labour Commissioner (ALC), Leh, Khatoon, who had been working with HIAL since 2023, alleged that the institution withheld her 26 weeks of statutory maternity salary despite her submitting the requisite medical and delivery documents. She stated that she proceeded on maternity leave on March 9, 2024, after continuing to work throughout her pregnancy.
The complaint further alleges that within a month of delivering her child, she was removed from official communication groups and her corporate email account was deactivated. Despite approaching the institution regarding her rejoining, she allegedly received no clear response. She also claimed that her experience certificate was withheld, adversely affecting her professional prospects, including an opportunity with Engineers India Limited (EIL).
The matter was registered as Case No. 22 before the Assistant Labour Commissioner, Leh, on June 27, 2026. The proceedings concern alleged non-payment and delayed payment of earned wages under Section 15 of the Payment of Wages Act, 1936, and relevant provisions of the Code on Wages, 2019. The complaint also invokes provisions of the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961.
As detailed in the case record, notices were issued to HIAL CEO Gitanjali Angmo and its HR representative Deachen on multiple occasions. The Labour Court subsequently issued a final notice directing their appearance on September 15, 2026, warning that failure to comply could invite permissible legal action.
The case record states that the concerned representatives appeared only once during the proceedings, on July 13, 2026. It further records that the CEO did not appear on subsequent dates despite repeated notices. Following the non-appearance on September 15, the matter was listed for November 7, 2026, for final orders.
Khatoon has approached the Labour Court seeking release of her pending maternity benefits and intervention regarding her employment status and withheld professional documentation.
The case raises uncomfortable questions about the gap between public advocacy and institutional accountability. Those who frequently champion women’s rights, equality and empowerment must also ensure that these principles are reflected in the treatment of women working within their own organisations. Women’s rights cannot remain merely a slogan for public platforms; they must be upheld in the workplace as well.
The matter is scheduled for final orders before the Labour Court, Leh, on November 7, 2026.
