A UK employment tribunal awarded 93,616.74 pounds (approximately ₹1 crore) in compensation to Paula Miluska after ruling that her pregnancy was the reason for her unfair dismissal from Roman Property Group Limited in Birmingham. Miluska, an investment consultant, had been dismissed by her boss, Ammar Kabir, via text message, which cited business difficulties and the need for an in-office worker. The termination message was abruptly sent, ending her employment with a dismissive “jazz hands” emoji.
UK Tribunal Awards Compensation for Unfair Dismissal Due to Pregnancy
The dismissal followed Miluska’s request to work from home due to severe morning sickness. In October 2022, Miluska, after learning of her pregnancy, began experiencing significant nausea and asked to work remotely. She had been advised by her midwife that it would be best for her during this period of pregnancy-related symptoms. In her message, Miluska explained the need to work from home for a couple of weeks due to hormonal changes and mentioned a health and safety assessment that would be necessary upon her return to work.
The tribunal found that the subsequent actions by Mr. Kabir were not sincere. He initially asked about her well-being in late November, and later, he inquired if she could work shorter hours the following week to cover his holiday absence. However, the tribunal concluded that this request was a pretext and that the real reason for her dismissal was Miluska’s pregnancy.
Tribunal Rules Pregnancy-Related Termination Unjustified, Awards Compensation
The tribunal ruled that the termination was unjustified and directly linked to her pregnancy, and awarded Miluska substantial compensation. The case highlights concern about pregnancy-related discrimination in the workplace and serves as a reminder of the protections available for pregnant employees in the UK.
