In a move that has sparked significant controversy, IT firms in Karnataka have submitted a proposal to the state government seeking to extend the working hours for employees to 14 hours per day. This proposal has been met with strong resistance from employee unions, who have called it inhumane and raised concerns about health issues and potential layoffs.
Proposal Details: Extending Work Hours to 14 Hours
According to sources, the IT companies have requested an amendment to the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961, to legally extend the workday from the current 12 hours (10 hours plus 2 hours of overtime) to 14 hours (12 hours plus 2 hours of overtime). The proposal also states that employees in the IT/ITeS/BPO sector may be required or allowed to work more than 12 hours a day, not exceeding 125 hours over three continuous months.
Government’s Consideration: Potential Amendment
The Karnataka government is reportedly considering this proposal and has already held an initial meeting on the matter. The proposal is expected to be discussed further in the cabinet, with decisions likely to follow soon.
Strong Resistance from Employees: Health and Employment Concerns
The Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union (KITU) has vehemently opposed the proposal, warning that such an amendment could lead to significant job losses. The union argues that extending work hours would enable companies to switch from a three-shift system to a two-shift system, potentially resulting in one-third of the workforce losing their jobs.
Health Impacts: Mental and Physical Health Risks
KITU has also highlighted the health risks associated with extended working hours. According to a report from KCCI, 45% of employees in the IT sector are already facing mental health issues such as depression, and 55% are dealing with physical health impacts. The union argues that increasing working hours will only exacerbate these issues, further deteriorating the well-being of employees.
Union’s Stand: A Call for Human Dignity
In their statement, the employees’ union criticized the state government’s apparent disregard for the well-being of workers. The union accused the government of viewing employees as mere machines rather than human beings who need personal and social time to thrive. They urged the Siddaramaiah government to reconsider the proposal and prioritize the health and employment security of IT employees over corporate profits.
Conclusion: A Heated Debate Over Work Hours
The proposal to extend work hours for IT employees in Karnataka has ignited a heated debate, with strong opposition from employee unions and significant concerns over health and job security. As the Karnataka government deliberates on this controversial proposal, the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the state’s IT workforce and labor laws.
