Karnataka's Proposed 14-Hour Workday for IT Employees Sparks Epic Controversy

Discover the implications of proposed Karnataka’s 14-hour workday for IT employees, exploring the potential impact on productivity, health, and the IT sector in Bengaluru.

In a move that has ignited significant debate, the Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union (KITU) has revealed the state government’s plan to extend working hours for IT employees to 14 hours per day. This proposal, aimed at amending the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishment Act, could profoundly affect the IT workforce in Bengaluru, the country’s IT hub.

The Proposal of 14-hour workday for IT employees: An Overview

The proposed amendment, known as the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Bill 2024, was introduced in a meeting organized by the labour department, which included various stakeholders from the industry. If enacted, this bill would normalize a 14-hour workday, effectively allowing a 70-hour workweek for IT employees. This marks a significant shift from the current regulation, which caps daily work hours at 10, including overtime.

Reactions from the IT/ITeS Employees Union

KITU has been vocal in its opposition, describing the amendment as the “biggest ever attack on the working class in this era.” The union fears that the new legislation will facilitate a two-shift system instead of the existing three-shift system, potentially leading to a significant reduction in workforce and increased unemployment in the sector.

During a meeting attended by Karnataka Labour Minister Santosh S Lad, along with officials from the departments of Labour, Information Technology, and Biotechnology, KITU highlighted the detrimental health impacts of prolonged working hours. According to the union, 45% of IT employees in Karnataka suffer from mental health issues such as depression, while 55% experience physical health problems. Studies, including those from WHO and ILO, indicate that extended working hours increase the risk of stroke and heart disease.

Health and Productivity Concerns

The proposed amendment comes at a time when global trends are moving towards reducing working hours to enhance productivity and employee well-being. Research consistently shows that longer working hours can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and severe health issues. For instance, a WHO-ILO study found that working long hours is associated with a 35% higher risk of stroke and a 17% higher risk of heart disease.

KITU argues that implementing such a policy would aggravate existing health issues among IT employees, reducing overall productivity and increasing healthcare costs. The union is urging the Siddaramaiah-led government to reconsider the proposal, warning that it could provoke significant backlash from the IT workforce.

The Context: Karnataka’s Labor Policies

This proposed bill follows another controversial decision by the Karnataka government to mandate job reservations for Kannadigas in private sector firms. The bill required private companies to reserve 70% of non-management roles and 50% of management positions for local residents. This proposal faced significant opposition, leading to its suspension.

The proposed extension of working hours appears to be part of a broader strategy by the state government to regulate labor practices more tightly. However, these measures have sparked concern and resistance among employees and industry stakeholders, who fear the potential negative impacts on employment and employee welfare.

Industry and Employee Perspectives

Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy previously suggested that India’s work culture needs to evolve, with employees prepared to work 70 hours a week. While this perspective emphasizes dedication and hard work, it overlooks the critical balance between productivity and employee well-being.

IT employees and industry experts argue that the proposed amendment could undermine this balance. Extended working hours without adequate rest can lead to burnout, decreased job satisfaction, and high turnover rates, ultimately affecting the industry’s long-term sustainability.

Moving Forward: What’s Next?

As the debate continues, the Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union calls for unity among IT sector employees to resist what they term an “inhuman attempt to impose slavery.” They emphasize the need for policies that promote a healthy work-life balance, protecting employees’ physical and mental health while maintaining productivity.

The Chief Minister’s office has yet to make an official statement on the proposal, leaving the future of the bill uncertain. Stakeholders from various sectors continue to engage in discussions, seeking a resolution that aligns with global best practices and ensures the welfare of the workforce.

In Short

The proposed 14-hour workday for IT employees in Karnataka has sparked significant controversy and concern. As discussions unfold, it is crucial to consider the broader implications of such a policy on employee health, productivity, and the industry’s sustainability. Balancing the demands of a competitive global market with the well-being of the workforce remains a critical challenge for policymakers.

By prioritizing a healthy work-life balance and drawing on global best practices, Karnataka can lead the way in creating a sustainable and productive work environment for its IT workforce.