Projected working hours extension in Karnataka Implications for IT professionals

A year after Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy suggested that youth should work 70 hours a week to boost productivity, IT companies in Karnataka have submitted a proposal to the state government to extend employee working hours to 14 hours a day. This proposal seeks to amend the Karnataka Shops, Commercial Establishments Act, 1961. Current labor laws allow working for 12 hours per day (10 hours + 2 hours overtime) The objective of the proposed amendment is to reduce this limit to 14 hours (12 hours). + 2 hours of overtime) may increase.

What do IT companies offer?

The IT industry proposal states that employees in the IT/ITeS/BPO sectors can be required to work more than 12 hours per day, but not more than 125 hours in three consecutive months. The idea is to legally expand permissible working hours to meet business needs and increase productivity.

When will the decision be made?

The Siddaramaiah government has already held a preliminary meeting in which the proposal has been discussed. A further decision is expected soon, as the government considers the potential economic benefits and welfare consequences for workers.

➡️ You may also like this Blog click here to read more

Why are IT organizations pushing for longer cycles? 

IT companies say extending business hours can help better meet project deadlines and customer demands. They argue that adjustments to increase working hours when needed can increase both productivity and competitiveness in the global marketplace.

How does the working class react?

The Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union (KITU) has vehemently opposed the proposal. Extending working hours, it is claimed, would reduce the turnover rate to two-thirds, potentially costing a third of the workforce The task force also highlights the adverse health effects of long hours emphasizes the effects of work. According to the KCCI report, 45% of IT workers face mental health issues such as depression, while 55% face physical health problems. The company argues that increased working hours will further exacerbate these issues.

Address concerns:

• Performance-health balance: Companies must find a balance between increasing productivity and ensuring the health and well-being of employees.
• Job security: When job rotation is reduced, measures must be implemented to protect job security.
• Regulatory controls: Strong regulatory controls are needed to prevent exploitation and ensure correct working conditions.

In conclusion, the proposal to extend working hours in Karnataka's IT sector has sparked a significant debate. While IT firms highlight potential productivity gains, the employees' union raises valid concerns about job security and health impacts. As the Siddaramaiah government deliberates on this proposal, it will need to carefully weigh the economic benefits against the welfare of the workforce to arrive at a balanced decision.