No 14-hour workday for techies, says Karnataka IT Secy
The Karnataka government has said there will be no extension of work hours for information technology (IT) sector employees. This clarification comes in response to recent protests by IT workers' unions, against a proposed increase in work timings to 14 hours. The announcement was made by Ekroop Caur, the Secretary of Karnataka's Information Technology-Biotechnology department, during Moneycontrol's Startup Conclave held in Bengaluru.
'Proposed changes were based on industry demands'
During a panel discussion at the conclave, Caur clarified that the proposed changes were based on industry demands and not an extension of work hours. She stated, "I want to clarify that the proposed changes were based on industry demands. Unfortunately, the communication has not been done well. The shift will continue to be nine hours, with no changes to the shift timings."
Proposal aimed at providing flexibility in overtime
Caur further explained that the proposal was intended to offer some flexibility regarding overtime, permitting up to 12-hour workdays with a cap on total overtime hours per quarter. She emphasized that this does not equate to a 14-hour workday. "The 14-hour span includes a two-hour break because one cannot work like a machine and needs rest," she clarified.
Karnataka's break duration differs from other states
Caur also pointed out that the break duration in Karnataka is longer than in other states or as per the Government of India's Model Shops and Establishment Bill. "The break duration in Karnataka is one hour after every five hours of work, unlike other states (Gujarat, Telangana, and Odisha) or the Government of India's Model Shops and Establishment Bill, which typically has a half-hour break," she said.
Misinterpretation of proposal led to confusion
Addressing the confusion surrounding the proposal, Caur stated that it was misinterpreted and has deviated from its original intent. She assured that safeguards are in place for this amendment, which only applies to certain industries or companies that seek permission from the state's Labour Department. Caur also promised that any additional working hours granted will not result in employee hardship.
