Did the Gujarat Assembly Just Open Night Shifts for Women Workers?
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Synopsis
The Gujarat Assembly's recent decision to amend the Factories Act empowers women to work night shifts, enhancing their economic rights while ensuring safety. This progressive legislation could transform workplace dynamics in Gujarat, balancing family life and professional opportunities. Discover how this move is set to shape the future of women's employment in the region.
Key Takeaways
- The Gujarat Amendment Bill allows women to work night shifts with consent.
- Employers must ensure adequate safety measures for female workers.
- Working hours can extend to 12 hours daily, with a weekly cap of 48 hours.
- Two paid days off are available after four consecutive 12-hour shifts.
- The Bill aims to balance worker welfare with industrial growth.
Gandhinagar, Sep 10 (NationPress) The Gujarat Assembly has approved the Factories (Gujarat Amendment) Bill, 2025, which permits women employees to undertake night shifts with their consent, provided that safety and health measures are implemented.
The Labour and Employment Minister Balvantsinh Rajput introduced the Bill on Wednesday, asserting that this initiative promotes equality, professional freedom, and economic rights for female workers while offering them the flexibility to juggle work and family duties. “With consent-based night duty, women can enhance their household income and have more family time during the day,” he stated.
The Bill encompasses several vital provisions designed to harmonize workplace flexibility with employee welfare.
Women will be allowed to work night shifts, contingent upon their consent and the establishment of adequate safety protocols. Daily working hours may extend to 12 hours, while the weekly limit remains capped at 48 hours.
To protect worker health, a mandatory half-hour break is required after six continuous working hours. Employees who complete four straight 12-hour shifts will receive two paid days off. Additionally, the Bill allows for up to 125 hours of overtime within a three-month timeframe, pending prior approval. Significantly, the state government retains the power to regulate the duration and applicability of these provisions and may revoke permissions if necessary.
The minister emphasized that these reforms maintain a balance between safeguarding worker welfare and promoting industrial advancement. Gujarat continues to attract new industries and investments, and flexible labor provisions will facilitate 24/7 production in sectors where uninterrupted operations are vital.
Rajput also noted that the modifications align with the constitutional principles of equality and respond to directives from the Gujarat High Court.
“This Bill legally empowers women to work at night in safe conditions and by their own choice,” he remarked, highlighting that 16 specific safeguards for women's health and security will be obligatory for factories employing them in night shifts.
He further indicated that industries like semiconductors and microchip manufacturing, where continuous operations are essential, will gain significant advantages. “The reforms protect labor welfare, broaden opportunities for women, and reinforce Gujarat’s contribution to India’s self-reliance initiative under Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Rajput added.
The Bill revises six sections of the Factories Act, 1948, concerning working hours, overtime, breaks, and women’s employment. It was approved in the Assembly with a focus on enhancing employment, attracting fresh investments, and fostering a supportive industrial environment.
Point of View
The Gujarat Assembly's decision to amend the Factories Act reflects a shift towards inclusivity and empowerment for women in the workforce. While balancing safety and economic growth, this legislation demonstrates a commitment to modernizing labor laws and creating an environment conducive to both industrial development and gender equality.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Gujarat Amendment Bill entail?
The Bill allows women to work night shifts with their consent, imposing safety and health measures to ensure their welfare.
What are the working hour regulations under this Bill?
Daily working hours can be extended to 12 hours, but the weekly limit remains capped at 48 hours.
What safety measures are included?
A mandatory half-hour break is required after six continuous hours of work, and factories must implement 16 specific safeguards for women's health.
How does this Bill benefit women?
It empowers women to contribute to their household income while allowing them to manage family responsibilities effectively.
What industries will benefit from this legislation?
Industries like semiconductors and microchip manufacturing, where 24/7 operations are crucial, will particularly benefit from the amendments.
