Karnataka IT firms propose 14-hour workday, employees fume

IT companies in Karnataka have reportedly submitted a proposal to the state government requesting an extension of employee working hours to 14 hours, sources have revealed.

However, this move has faced strong opposition from employees, who have denounced it as inhuman, citing concerns over health issues and potential layoffs.

Sources indicate that the Karnataka government is contemplating amending the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961. The proposed amendment seeks to legally allow for a maximum of 14 working hours per day (12 hours plus 2 hours of overtime) for IT sector employees.

Under current labor laws, employees are permitted to work 9 hours per day, with an additional hour allowable as overtime.

The new proposal from the IT sector suggests that employees in IT/ITeS/BPO industries could work beyond 12 hours a day, up to a maximum of 125 hours over three consecutive months.

Government sources have confirmed an initial discussion on the matter, with further decisions anticipated soon. The proposal is expected to undergo deliberation by the Cabinet.

Employees, particularly represented by the Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union (KITU), have vehemently opposed the extension of working hours. In a statement, the union warned that reducing shifts to accommodate longer hours could lead to significant job losses, affecting one-third of the workforce.

The union has also highlighted studies indicating adverse health effects among IT employees due to prolonged working hours. According to their statement, a substantial percentage of IT workers suffer from mental health issues such as depression (45%) and physical health impacts (55%). They argue that increasing working hours would exacerbate these issues.

Critically, the union criticized the proposal, accusing the government of treating employees as mere productivity tools rather than recognizing their needs for personal and social well-being.

“This amendment reflects a disregard for workers’ humanity and their right to a balanced life. It prioritizes corporate profits over the well-being of employees,” the union’s statement further emphasized.