Will shops and hotels in Telangana stay open all night during Ramadan?
Synopsis
The Telangana government has announced that shops and hotels can operate until 5 a.m. during Ramadan, ensuring convenience for the community. With special provisions for women employees, this decision reflects the state's commitment to inclusivity and respect for religious practices. Discover more about this significant development and its implications for local businesses and the Muslim community.
Key Takeaways
Shops in Telangana can operate until 5 a.m. during Ramadan.
Women employees are protected by restrictions on working hours.
The decision supports the local Muslim community's religious practices.
Compensatory holidays are mandated for employees working during this period.
The Chief Minister has publicly supported this initiative.
Hyderabad, Feb 18 (NationPress) The government of Telangana has granted permission for shops and business establishments to operate until 5 a.m. during the sacred month of Ramadan.
On Wednesday, Labour Commissioner M. Dana Kishore issued directives exempting local businesses from specific provisions of the Telangana Shops and Establishments Act 1988 from February 19 to March 20 (both dates included).
Shops and hotels can conduct business until ‘Sehri’ (the pre-dawn meal) or 5 a.m. daily.
The Commissioner emphasized that overtime wages must be disbursed according to the Act, and management is responsible for providing compensatory holidays to employees working on holidays.
Additionally, it was instructed that the maximum work duration on any single day should not exceed 13 hours.
Women employees are exempt from the extended working hours, with a stipulation that no female employees should be scheduled to work past 8:30 p.m., as per the order.
Furthermore, the state government has already issued directives allowing Muslim employees to leave their offices an hour early during Ramadan.
A similar announcement was made by the Andhra Pradesh government, allowing Muslim staff to exit offices at 4 p.m..
In the meantime, the fasting month of Ramadan is set to commence on February 19, following the sighting of the new crescent moon.
The Markazi Ruyat-E-Hilaal Committee in Hyderabad confirmed the moon sighting on Wednesday, indicating that February 19 (Thursday) will mark the first day of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
On the occasion of Ramadan's onset, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy extended warm wishes to the Muslim community.
He remarked that the fasting and prayers observed by Muslims throughout this holy month enhance both spirituality and discipline.
He also stated that Telangana exemplifies the preservation of secularism and religious harmony within the nation.
The Chief Minister expressed hopes that Muslims celebrate this holy month with joy and receive the blessings of the Almighty.
Point of View
This decision by the Telangana government reflects a growing trend of inclusivity and respect for diverse religious practices. It showcases a commitment to balancing economic activities while honoring cultural traditions, a crucial aspect of India's secular fabric.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new operating hours for shops in Telangana during Ramadan?
Shops and business establishments in Telangana are allowed to remain open until 5 a.m. during Ramadan.
Are there any special provisions for women employees?
Yes, women employees are exempt from extended hours, with no work scheduled after 8:30 p.m.
When does Ramadan begin in 2023?
Ramadan is set to commence on February 19, 2023, following the sighting of the new crescent moon.
What has the Chief Minister said about this decision?
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed hopes that Muslims celebrate the holy month joyfully and receive the blessings of the Almighty.
Is this decision only applicable to Telangana?
No, a similar order has been issued by the Andhra Pradesh government for Muslim employees to leave offices at 4 p.m.
