Several states are advancing labour-law reforms to relax daily working-hour caps and raise overtime limits forcertain sectors. Governments and employers promote these changes as steps toward greater flexibility,competitiveness (China+1), and ease of doing business. However, this push has ignited sharp criticism overthe overshadowed consequences-escalating fatigue, health hazards, safety risks, and the erosion of work-lifebalance. In the context of long commutes, persistent unemployment, and sectors already under pressure, thequestion is: are we sacrificing sustainable labour standards for short-term productivity gains?
What’s Changing-and where?
Recent amendments favour extending working hours:
In Telangana, commercial establishments (excluding shops) can now operate 10 hours daily with a 48-hourweekly cap. Overtime pay is mandated beyond 48 hours, with required rest breaks after six hours and amaximum 12-hour work “spread” including intervals.
Uttar Pradesh’s Factories (Amendment) Act permits up to 12 daily working hours in...
