Hyderabad IT Employees Concerned Over Karnataka’s Proposed 14-Hour Workday

Hyderabad: Tech employees in Hyderabad are worried about the potential effects of a proposed amendment in Karnataka that would extend the workday for IT employees to 14 hours. The amendment to the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act has sparked a debate among IT professionals in Telangana’s capital, who fear it would worsen their already challenging work conditions and ‘legalize exploitation.’

Employees like Anil Kumar, a senior developer in Hitec City, and Karthik Reddy, another IT professional, express concerns that longer work hours would increase burnout and stress. Employers, such as Komal Patel, an HR director, also worry about higher attrition rates and employee retention.

Additionally, commuting challenges are highlighted, with employees like Nisha Rao noting that a longer workday would severely impact their personal lives. The proposal has faced strong opposition from Karnataka’s IT employees and workers’ unions, citing the adverse health impacts of extended working hours. The debate underscores the broader issue of worker rights and the need for balanced working conditions. Many in Hyderabad hope their concerns will contribute to more equitable labor practices.

Key Points:

Long Hours and High Expectations: Tech employees in Hyderabad already face demanding work hours and high expectations.

Proposed Amendment: The Congress government in Karnataka has proposed an amendment to extend the workday for IT employees to 14 hours. The amendment to the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act has sparked debate.

Concerns in Hyderabad: Hyderabad’s tech professionals fear the ripple effects of this move. They worry it would legalize exploitation, further straining their limited work-life balance, productivity, and employee rights.

Employer Concerns: Komal Patel, HR Director at a Multinational Company: Extended hours could increase attrition rates and drive talent away as employees prioritize work-life balance and mental health.

Commuting Issues: Nisha Rao, Software Engineer: Notes that a 12- to 14-hour workday would leave little time for rest or personal life, especially with Hyderabad’s traffic.

Opposition in Karnataka: The proposal has faced fierce resistance from IT employees and workers’ unions in Karnataka. Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union (KITU) opposed the move, citing studies on the adverse health impacts of extended working hours.

Broader Debate: Highlights issues of worker rights and corporate responsibility. Emphasizes the need for balanced and humane working conditions. Hyderabad employees hope their concerns will contribute to more equitable labor practices.