Argus News - Shops to Remain Open 24x7 as Odisha Assembly Passes Amendment Bill

Bhubaneswar, Dec 4: The Odisha Legislative Assembly has passed the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Amendment Bill, paving the way for shops in smart cities to remain open 24 hours a day.

The move is expected to boost employment opportunities, ease business operations, and modernize the state’s commercial landscape.

Odisha Labour Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia highlighted that the amendment will create more jobs and make trade more convenient for entrepreneurs and consumers alike. To ensure smooth implementation, every block will have designated labour officers and assistant officers to oversee compliance and safeguard workers’ rights.

A significant feature of the bill is its emphasis on women’s safety during night shifts. Employers will be required to provide transportation facilities equipped with GPS tracking for female employees working late hours.

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Most importantly, no woman can be compelled to work at night; participation will be strictly voluntary, subject to her consent. Adequate security and dignity at the workplace will be mandatory conditions for employing women during night shifts.

The amendment also sets clear limits on working hours. Employees may work up to 9-10 hours a day, but weekly working hours cannot exceed 48. This provision balances productivity with worker welfare, ensuring that extended business hours do not translate into exploitative practices.

The government believes the reform will not only strengthen Odisha’s retail and service sector but also align the state with global standards of urban commerce. By allowing shops to operate round-the-clock in smart cities, Odisha aims to attract investment, enhance consumer convenience, and generate new avenues of employment.