A Dangerous Precedent: The Karnataka Government's Proposal to Increase Working Hours in the IT and ITES Sectors
In a move that has sparked widespread concern and debate, the Karnataka government is contemplating a drastic increase in the daily working hours for employees in the IT and ITES sectors. The proposal suggests raising the maximum working hours from the current 10 to a staggering 14 hours. This proposition has ignited a firestorm of controversy, with critics arguing that it not only disregards established labor laws and constitutional provisions but also poses significant risks to the well-being and productivity of employees. A Dubious Legal Foundation The most glaring concern surrounding the proposal is its potential violation of existing labor laws and constitutional safeguards. The Indian Constitution, in Article 42, mandates the provision of just and humane conditions of work, including reasonable working hours. Additionally, the Factories Act of 1948 and the Shops and Commercial Establishments Act of each state regulate working hours across various industries. These legal framework...