On September 3, 2025, the Maharashtra Cabinet approved sweeping amendments to the Factories Act, 1948, extending daily work hours from 9 to 12 and raising the weekly cap to 60 hours. Announced as a move to enhance industrial flexibility and ensure better worker compensation, the decision has ignited a fierce debate. While the state government, led by Devendra Fadnavis, promises fairness and higher pay, labour unions have slammed the changes as exploitative, raising concerns about worker well-being. Here’s a deep dive into this contentious reform.
- Key Points:
- Maharashtra amends Factories Act to allow 12-hour daily shifts.
- Decision aims to boost flexibility and worker pay, effective post-presidential approval.
- Labour unions protest, citing risks to worker income and health.
Key Amendments: Redefining Work Hours
The amendments overhaul several sections of the Factories Act, 1948, to modernize labour regulations. Section 54 now permits 12-hour daily shifts, up from 9 hours, while Section 56 increases the weekly work limit from 48 to 60 hours. Section 65 raises the overtime cap from 115 to 144 hours per quarter, and Section 55 mandates 30-minute rest breaks after 5 and 6 hours of work. These changes require government approval for implementation and worker consent for overtime, with the 48-hour weekly base limit preserved to balance flexibility and worker rights.
- Key Points:
- Daily work hours extended to 12; weekly cap raised to 60 hours.
- Overtime limit increased to 144 hours per quarter.
- Mandatory rest breaks and worker consent for overtime introduced.
Scope of the Reforms: Beyond Factories
The new rules extend beyond traditional factories, applying to shops, IT sectors, and hospitality industries like hotels. State Labour Secretary I Kundan emphasized that the amendments aim to align with industry needs while ensuring transparency and fair compensation. The 60-hour weekly cap, inclusive of overtime, is designed to prevent exploitation, with factories required to seek state approval to adopt the new framework. These changes await presidential approval and passage through the Maharashtra Legislature to take effect.
- Key Points:
- Rules apply to factories, IT, shops, and hospitality sectors.
- Government approval required for implementation.
- Amendments pending presidential and legislative approval.
Government’s Promise: Flexibility and Fair Pay
Labour Advocate Minister Akash Fundkar defended the amendments, stating they would “enhance transparency and ensure better compensation for workers.” Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured that the state would prevent injustice to any group, emphasizing that the reforms cater to global economic demands while protecting worker rights. The government argues that extended hours allow workers to earn more through overtime, aligning with the needs of industries like IT and manufacturing, which often require flexible schedules.
- Key Points:
- Government claims reforms boost transparency and worker pay.
- Designed to meet global economic and industry demands.
- Fadnavis vows to prevent injustice to workers.
Labour Unions’ Backlash: An Exploitative Move?
Labour unions have fiercely opposed the amendments, labeling them exploitative and detrimental to workers’ livelihoods. Ajit Abhyankar, a labour leader from the Communist Party of India, argued that the 12-hour shift rule effectively eliminates overtime pay for three days, reducing workers’ income. He warned that employers could exploit the flexibility by increasing workloads or shifting to cost-effective night operations, which may harm workers’ health and well-being. Unions fear the changes prioritize corporate interests over labour rights, potentially leading to overwork and reduced earnings.
- Key Points:
- Unions call 12-hour shifts exploitative, cutting overtime pay.
- Concerns over increased workloads and night shifts impacting health.
- Fear reforms favor corporate interests over worker welfare.
Conclusion: A Divisive Step Toward Labour Reform
Maharashtra’s amendments to the Factories Act, 1948, mark a bold attempt to align labour laws with modern industrial demands, promising higher pay and flexibility for workers. However, the move has sparked a heated debate, with labour unions warning of exploitation and reduced earnings. As the state awaits presidential approval, the challenge lies in ensuring that these reforms empower workers rather than burden them. Maharashtra’s journey to redefine its labour landscape will be closely watched, with implications for worker rights and industrial growth across India.
