The Government of Meghalaya has revised its notification concerning the working hours for female employees on 10th January 2024. The new guidelines emphasize safety and consent, reflecting a more nuanced approach to managing work hours for women.
Revised Notification Details
The updated notification specifies the following:
- Consent Requirement: If female employees are required to work past 7:00 PM, their written consent must be obtained. This ensures that employees are informed and agree to work beyond regular hours.
- Safety and Security Measures: Employers are required to make adequate safety and security arrangements for female employees during their working hours. This includes ensuring that employees can safely travel home after their work is completed.
- Ensuring Safe Travel: It is the responsibility of the employer to guarantee that female employees reach their homes safely after working hours.
Previous vs. Revised Guidelines
Previously, the notification stated that female employees would not be allowed to work after 7:00 PM unless their written consent was obtained. The new guidelines replace this with a more flexible approach, focusing on consent and safety rather than an outright restriction.
Importance of the Update
This revision aims to balance the need for flexibility in work hours with the imperative of ensuring safety and security for female employees. By requiring written consent and mandating robust safety measures, the Government of Meghalaya seeks to create a safer working environment while respecting the choices of female employees.
