Tamil Nadu Extends Permission for Shops and Establishments to Operate 365 Days

The Tamil Nadu government has extended the permission for shops and establishments to remain open throughout the year for another three years.

The Labour Welfare and Skill Development Department issued a government order regarding the extension in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette on August 24.

The government has also imposed several conditions on establishments operating under the provision.

Weekly Holiday Mandatory for Employees

Employers must provide one day of weekly leave to every employee on a rotational basis. Details of employees` weekly holidays must also be displayed prominently at the workplace so that they are accessible to everyone.

Employees` wages and overtime payments must be credited directly to their savings bank accounts.

Employers must not require employees to work for more than eight hours a day or 48 hours a week.

Rules for Women Working at Night

Under normal circumstances, women employees cannot be compelled to work after 8 PM.

However, women employees may work between 8 PM and 6 AM if they provide written consent. Employers must also make appropriate arrangements to ensure their safety and dignity during night shifts.

Establishments must provide mandatory transportation facilities for women employees working during night hours.

The government order states that establishments and employers violating these conditions will face penal action under the Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Act and Rules.