The Delhi government has formally permitted women employees to work night shifts across shops and commercial establishments, excluding liquor outlets. The decision, notified by the Lieutenant Governor, amends the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, 1954, following Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s announcement in July.
Under the new provisions, women can work night hours if establishments comply with safety, welfare, and labour law requirements. No employee can work more than nine hours daily or 48 hours weekly, and continuous work beyond five hours without a break is prohibited. Employers must ensure safe transportation, CCTV coverage, and adequate security for night-shift workers.
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Overtime and holiday work will be compensated at double the regular wages, and statutory benefits such as PF, ESI, bonuses, and leave must be maintained. Establishments must constitute an Internal Complaints Committee under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013, and obtain prior consent before assigning night shifts. A copy of the notification must be displayed prominently.
