The Labour Department of Rajasthan issued a notification on 19th March, 2024 regarding decisions made under the Industrial Disputes Act. The notification grants certain exemptions to shops and commercial establishments registered under the Rajasthan Shops and Commercial Institutions Act for a period of three years.
These exemptions are subject to specific conditions aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of female employees, particularly those working during night hours. The conditions include obtaining consent from female employees for night-time work, providing necessary safety measures for travel and workplace environment, issuing employment letters and identity cards, offering restrooms and lockers for women workers, and implementing measures to prevent sexual harassment. The notification also outlines the automatic termination of exemptions and the liability of employers in case of violation of the specified conditions.
Furthermore, the notification specifies extended exemption periods for shops and commercial institutions where the owner is a woman and the business is run solely by women employees. The overarching theme of the notification is to address and regulate the working conditions and safety of female employees in shops and commercial institutions, particularly concerning night-time work and potential risks such as sexual harassment. The emphasis on obtaining consent, providing safety measures, and ensuring legal accountability highlights the commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of women in the workforce.
