In a recent development, the National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) has voiced its opposition to the proposed changes in Karnataka’s labor laws. The amendment aims to extend the workday limit to 14 hours, a significant shift from the current 10-hour maximum, including overtime. Here are the key points:
Proposed Amendment:
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- The ‘Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Bill 2024’ suggests increasing the workday limit for IT employees to 14 hours.
- This proposal has triggered intense opposition from IT sector unions across various industries.
NASSCOM’s Stance:
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- Ashish Aggarwal, Vice-President and Head of Public Policy at NASSCOM, clarified that NASSCOM did not request a 14-hour workday or a 70-hour workweek.
- NASSCOM fully supports the standard 48-hour workweek prevalent across the country.
- Their primary request to both state and central governments has been for flexibility within the 48-hour limit.
Industry Concerns:
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- IT sector unions argue that extending work hours could lead to burnout and negatively impact work-life balance.
- Critics view the proposed 14-hour workday as contrary to prevailing labor laws2.
The industry body, however, did acknowledge discussions with the Karnataka government’s IT department regarding some flexibility within the existing 48-hour workweek limit. This flexibility, according to NASSCOM, would be beneficial for companies with pan-India operations to standardize their work schedules.
The Karnataka government’s proposal has drawn criticism for potentially leading to employee burnout and work-life imbalance. NASSCOM’s opposition adds to the growing chorus against the 14-hour workday limit, with the outcome of the proposed amendment bill remaining to be seen.
