The Karnataka government has clarified that the proposed amendment to change working hours will not alter the 48-hour weekly limit. The proposed 10 hour work-day includes one-hour break, with a focus on flexibility and the limit of maximum 12 hours is inclusive of overtime, it said.
“We want to state unequivocally that the proposal does not, in any way, alter the maximum weekly working hours, which remain capped at 48 hours,” the government said in its clarification. This is in full compliance with the standards set by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and foundational domestic laws. There is no violation of any international convention or standard, it added.
The current provision under the law is for nine working hours in a day. The proposal seeks to amend this to allow up to 10 hours a day. This 10-hour period is inclusive of a 1-hour rest interval, meaning the active working time per day would remain at 9 hours. The maximum limit of 12 hours a day includes overtime.
The primary objective of this proposal is to provide flexibility for both employees and employers, as per the state government. This change would legally enable a system where an employee can complete their 48-hour weekly work requirement in fewer days, giving them the freedom to choose flexi-hours, the clarification stated.
“The Government of Karnataka is committed to the welfare of its entire workforce. This proposal is currently in the consultation stage, and we are in active dialogue with all stakeholders to ensure that any final decision is holistic, balanced, and beneficial for all,” it said.
On June 18, 2025, the Department of Labour held a tripartite meeting with recognised trade unions and industry representatives to discuss proposed amendments to Section 7 of the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act.
The proposed changes by the state government had drawn flak, with the Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union (KITU) calling for all sectors across the state to resist the move. KITU, in its criticism of the government's move, described the proposals as "modern-day slavery".
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