Rahul Haldar

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...

India's burgeoning job market has witnessed a concerning trend in recent years: a cultural expectation for employees to sacrifice sleep, endure long working hours, and accept lower salaries than they deserve. This phenomenon is not only detrimental to the well-being of individual employees but also raises questions about the sustainability and ethicality of the nation's economic growth model. The Sleep Deficit Epidemic In India's hypercompetitive work environment, sleep deprivation has become a badge of honor. The glorification of "hustle culture" and the constant pressure to outperform peers have normalized sacrificing sleep for work. A recent study revealed that Indian professionals average 6.5 hours of sleep per night, well below the recommended 7-8 hours. This chronic sleep deficit leads to a host of physical and mental health problems, including impaired cognitive function, decreased productivity, and increased risk of chronic diseases. Several factors contri...