A transport constable, dismissed by the Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC) for briefly dozing off after enduring relentless 16-hour shifts for two consecutive months, has been reinstated by the Karnataka High Court. Justice M. Nagaprasanna ruled that the corporation itself was responsible for overburdening him.
A viral video of Chandrashekar, stationed in KKRTC’s Koppal division since May 2016, showed him resting momentarily at work. A vigilance report dated April 23, 2024, accused him of sleeping on duty, leading to his suspension on July 1, 2024. In his defense, Chandrashekar argued that sheer exhaustion from prolonged double shifts left him sleep-deprived.
The court held that adequate rest is a fundamental right. It cited the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and International Labour Organization’s guidelines, both of which emphasize a work-life balance and stipulate a maximum of 48 work hours per week. The judge stressed that had Chandrashekar slept during a standard eight-hour shift, it would be misconduct. However, working two shifts daily for 60 consecutive days justified his fatigue.
Declaring the suspension unjust, the court ordered its annulment, ensuring Chandrashekar’s reinstatement with full salary and service continuity. The verdict reaffirms the legal entitlement to rest and humane work conditions.
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