New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday hailed her government’s decision to allow women employees to work night shifts across shops and commercial establishments in the capital, describing it as a landmark step toward workplace gender equality.
Chief Minister Gupta said, “I’m amazed to think why women were denied the right to work from 9 pm to 7 am. We have repealed it. Now women can work at any time as per their convenience.”
The reform, formalised through a notification issued by the Lieutenant Governor, amends key provisions of the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, 1954. Although the policy was first announced by Gupta in July, it has now been officially notified by the Labour Department, enabling immediate implementation.
Under the new order, all shops and commercial establishments—except liquor outlets—can employ women during night hours, provided they meet strict safety, welfare, and labour law requirements. The rules ensure that no employee works more than nine hours a day or 48 hours a week, and prohibit continuous work for over five hours without a break.
Employers cannot compel women to work exclusively on night shifts. Those who do opt for them must be provided safe transportation, CCTV-monitored premises, and adequate security. The footage is to be retained for at least one month for review when necessary.
Employees working overtime will receive double wages, while those working on national holidays must also be paid double and granted compensatory leave. Employers are mandated to ensure compliance with PF, ESI, bonus, and leave entitlements.
Each establishment must also set up an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, and obtain written consent from women employees before assigning them night duties.
Chief Minister Gupta termed the policy “a step toward real empowerment,” saying it upholds women’s right to work on equal terms and promotes inclusivity in Delhi’s evolving labour landscape.
