Gujarat government has announced plans to amend the Factories Act, 1948, to allow women to work night shifts in factories.
This decision will pave the way for greater participation of women in industrial employment while ensuring their safety and dignity.
The proposed amendments are being hailed as a progressive step towards creating an inclusive and equitable work environment.
Gujarat Government’s Current Legal Framework
The existing provisions of the Factories Act permit women to work only between 6 AM and 7 PM.
Section 66 of the Act clearly prohibits women from working during night hours. This restriction has long hindered their full participation in industrial employment.
Gujarat government plans to use its powers under Section 65 of the Act to make amendments to the law.
It intends to modify clause (b) of Section 66 to lift these restrictions.
Key Features of the Proposed Amendments
The proposed changes aim to strike a balance between empowering women and ensuring their safety. Key features of the amendments include:
- Workplace Safety Measures: Employers will be required to strengthen workplace protections for women, including enhanced security measures and harassment prevention protocols.
- Transportation and Rest Periods: Companies must arrange secure transportation with female guards and ensure a mandatory 12-hour rest period between shifts.
- Voluntary Consent: Women will be allowed to work night shifts only upon providing written consent, ensuring that their participation is entirely voluntary.
- Group Employment: Women working night shifts must be deployed in groups of at least 10 to ensure their safety.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Factories will need to provide adequate lighting, CCTV surveillance, and hygienic facilities to create a secure working environment.
Government’s Vision, Challenges and Concerns
The Gujarat government has emphasized that these amendments align with its commitment to gender inclusivity and workforce empowerment.
Officials have stated that the changes will enhance women’s participation in industrial employment and foster a progressive work culture.
The move will address the challenges faced by multinational corporations and other companies in engaging women for night shifts due to existing legal restrictions.
While the amendments are a step in the right direction, they also raise concerns about implementation and compliance.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of women working night shifts will require robust monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
Additionally, companies will need to invest in infrastructure and training to meet the new requirements.
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