Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union 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

If enacted, this bill would normalize a 14-hour workday, effectively allowing a 70-hour workweek for IT employees.

KITU has been vocal in its opposition, describing the amendment as the "biggest ever attack on the working class in this era."

The new legislation will facilitate a two-shift system instead of the existing three-shift system, potentially leading to a significant reduction in workforce

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.

As discussions unfold, it is crucial to consider broader implications of such a policy on employee health, productivity, and the industry’s sustainability.