Karnataka 14-hour workday proposal
Hyderabad IT Employees Voice Concern Over Karnataka’s Proposed 14-Hour Workday
Tech employees in Hyderabad, already grappling with long hours and high expectations, are voicing their concerns over the proposed amendment in Karnataka to extend the workday for IT employees to 14 hours. The Congress government’s move has sparked a significant debate among IT professionals in Telangana’s capital.
The proposed amendment to the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act has left many IT workers in Hyderabad apprehensive about potential ripple effects. They fear that this move could set a precedent, potentially influencing similar changes in their own city.
Expressing concerns about the already strained work-life balance, productivity, and employee rights, many professionals feel that this proposal would essentially legalize exploitation within the sector. Anil Kumar, a senior developer at a tech firm in Hitec City, commented, “This proposal feels like a giant step backward. Longer work hours will only exacerbate existing issues like burnout and stress. It’s alarming to think that such measures might be adopted here next.”
Similar sentiments were echoed throughout the tech corridors of Hitec City. Karthik Reddy, another IT professional, stated, “While we understand the pressure to deliver projects on time, pushing employees to work longer hours isn’t the solution. We need to focus on smarter work practices rather than just increasing working hours.”
Employers in Hyderabad are also scrutinizing the implications of this policy. Komal Patel, HR director at a multinational company, expressed concerns about employee retention. “Extended work hours can lead to higher attrition rates. Employees today prioritize work-life balance and mental health. If such a policy were to be implemented here, it could drive talent away,” she remarked.
The issue of commuting is also prominent among Hyderabad’s tech workers. “With the traffic in Hyderabad, a 12- to 14-hour workday would leave us with little time for rest or personal life,” observed Nisha Rao, a software engineer.
The proposal has ignited fierce resistance from IT employees and workers’ unions in Karnataka, who argue that it would severely impact work-life balance and employees’ health. The Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union (KITU) strongly opposed the move during their meeting with the Labour Department, citing studies that highlight the adverse health impacts of extended working hours.
This debate underscores a broader issue of worker rights and corporate responsibility, emphasizing the need for balanced and humane working conditions. As the proposal continues to draw scrutiny, many in Hyderabad hope their voices will contribute to a more equitable approach to labor practices.
The ongoing discussion reflects a critical examination of labor policies in the tech industry, stressing the importance of prioritizing employee well-being alongside productivity.