In the bustling tech landscape of Bengaluru, a looming proposal to extend daily office hours to 14 hours has sparked significant concern among IT professionals. As the Karnataka government considers amending the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961, tech workers are evaluating their options amidst the possibility of a drastic increase in work hours.
A Day in the Life
For many tech employees, the proposed changes could disrupt an already challenging work-life balance. “I wake up at 6 am, manage household chores, and leave for work around 8:30 am to avoid Bengaluru’s notorious traffic. After a 9-10 hour workday, I return home to exercise, have dinner, and unwind,” shares one employee. “If the new proposal goes through, working 70 hours a week would leave me with little time for daily responsibilities and personal space.”
Proposed Legislation
The Karnataka government’s proposal aims to extend work hours for IT and IT-enabled services (ITES) employees to 14 hours per day, with a cap of 125 hours over three months. This potential change has stirred unease among workers and stakeholders, raising fears about the impact on their health and personal lives.
Dhruv Rohira, a recent BITS Pilani graduate, points out the difference between voluntary overtime and mandatory extended hours. “Working extra hours occasionally is different from being compelled to work 14-hour days,” he says. The proposal is seen as a potential strain on employees already facing unofficial after-hours work from home.
The Personal Toll
Employees like Neelam Acharya, who juggles work with childcare, are particularly worried. “With a toddler at home, an increase in work hours would force me to either quit my job or find additional help, which raises concerns about safety and trust,” she explains. Mental health professionals also warn of the risks associated with longer workdays, including increased stress, burnout, and deterioration in physical and mental health.
Dr. Kriti Vyas, a consultant counseling psychologist, underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. “Extended work hours can exacerbate physical and mental health issues, leading to burnout and affecting overall well-being,” she says. Dr. Vyas advocates for reduced working days and regular mental health check-ups as countermeasures.
Global Perspectives
Comparatively, working hours vary significantly across the globe. While countries like the UAE, Gambia, and Bhutan have high legal working hours, developed nations such as the UK and the US impose limits to protect workers. In the UK, the maximum average weekly working hours are capped at 48, while in the US, the Fair Labor Standards Act mandates overtime pay for work exceeding 40 hours per week.
Shifting IT Hubs
Amidst these concerns, Bengaluru may face competition as a leading IT hub. Cities like Hyderabad, Pune, and Gurugram are emerging as viable alternatives. “Ahmedabad is also becoming an IT center, offering more options for tech professionals,” notes Dhruv.
Sanya Keshari, who recently completed an internship in Bengaluru, reflects on the mixed experiences of living in the city. “While some locals are welcoming, others exhibit hostility towards non-Kannadigas, which can be disheartening,” she says.
Looking Abroad
The proposal has also prompted some tech professionals to consider opportunities abroad. A 28-year-old from Kolkata now views international job prospects as more attractive, given the potential for better work conditions and recognition. “If the proposal passes, it might be more beneficial to seek opportunities abroad rather than endure extended hours and limited personal time in India,” she adds.
Conclusion
As Bengaluru grapples with the prospect of longer workdays, tech professionals are exploring their options, from relocating to emerging IT hubs within India to seeking opportunities overseas. The proposed changes highlight ongoing debates about work-life balance and the need for sustainable working conditions in the tech industry.
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