Shimla, Oct. 12 -- The Himachal Pradesh High Court on Monday has stayed the termination of a pregnant woman scientist dismissed three days after applying for maternity benefits and directed the authorities to allow her to continue working pending further hearing.

Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua passed the interim order while hearing a writ petition filed by Aaina Sharma against the Union of India and other respondents.

The petition was heard on October 9, and the written order has now been made available.

The court stayed implementation of the termination order dated August 7, 2026, and directed the respondents to permit Dr. Sharma to continue as Scientist-B (Medical) under her original appointment letter dated July 24, 2024.

The matter is ...