Gujarat Raises Daily Work Hours To 10

The Gujarat government has increased the daily working hours in shops and commercial establishments from nine to ten hours after the state Assembly passed an amendment to the existing labour law. The move comes following the approval of the Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, which introduces significant changes aimed at improving business flexibility while incorporating safeguards for employees.

The amendment allows commercial establishments to extend working hours to ten per day, subject to compliance with overtime regulations and weekly hour limits as prescribed under labour norms. Government representatives stated that the change is intended to boost productivity, enhance ease of doing business, and align Gujarat’s labour framework with evolving industry demands.

A key provision of the amendment permits women to work in night shifts, provided employers ensure mandatory safety measures, including secure transportation, adequate lighting, CCTV surveillance, and the presence of security personnel. The government emphasised that written consent from women employees and strict adherence to workplace safety standards would be compulsory.

Supporters of the bill argue that the reform will strengthen Gujarat’s position as an industrial and commercial hub by offering greater operational flexibility to businesses. However, opposition members raised concerns regarding worker welfare, questioning whether increased working hours could lead to exploitation if enforcement mechanisms are weak.

The amendment will come into force after formal notification, and detailed rules are expected to outline compliance requirements for employers across the state.