Employees express discontent over Andhra's 10-hour workday move

The TDP-led NDA government in Andhra Pradesh has decided to raise the maximum working hours from nine to 10 per day as part of ease of doing business and attracting investors.

The Information and Public Relations (I&PR) Minister K Parthasarathy said that it has been decided to amend labour laws to make them 'favourable' to workers and investors.

Netizens questioned how working 10-hours a day will be "favourable" for them, and its impact on work-life balance.

Many people raised questions on social media platform X regarding salaries and were curious if there will be any hike.

""Skill India" slowly becoming "Sweat India", a user commented on X.

A second user wrote, "Good for financial growth. What about mental health?? 10 hrs work, 2 hrs travelling, 8hrs sleep, you have to do everything in left 4 hours. 11 to 12 hours are fine for people working in government jobs."

"Calling it growth, but stretching people thin. 10 hours isn’t progress, it’s pressure!" wrote another..

CPI state secretary K Ramakrishna criticised the move and said NDA governments at the Centre and state are pursuing 'anti worker' policies.

According to the I&PR Minister, women were not allowed to work in the night shifts earlier but now they can work with safeguards such as consent, transport facility, security and surveillance.

He said the workplace of women during night shifts should be fully illuminated.

"When you work extra, income will increase. By these rules women can work in the formal sector. They empower women economically and promote gender inclusion and industrial growth. Also contribute to women's empowerment," he said.

Meanwhile, K Ramakrishna, State Secretary of CPI, opposed the NDA alliance government's stand on labour laws amendments. He alleged that the Central and state governments are working against the interests of workers.

(With PTI inputs)