- By Priyanka Koul
- Wed, 30 Jul 2025 11:15 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a major policy shift aimed at improving women's workforce participation and turning the national capital into a 24x7 business hub, the Delhi government has given the green light to allow women to work night shifts in shops and commercial establishments. The move comes with strict conditions focused on safety and workplace accountability, according to News18.
Currently, Sections 14, 15, and 16 of the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, 1954, restrict women from working at night specifically from 9 pm to 7 am in the summer months and from 8 pm to 8 am during winters. The proposed amendment will override these provisions, provided it receives the final nod from the Lieutenant Governor.
“In a major step towards empowering women and enhancing their self-reliance, the Delhi Government under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has taken a landmark decision to allow women to work in night shifts (24×7) in shops and commercial establishments,” the government said in an official statement.
The chief minister believes the policy will serve dual goals, creating a more inclusive workforce and encouraging business operations around the clock.
The rollout of this policy hinges on ensuring women’s safety. Gupta has made it clear that workplaces must implement comprehensive measures before being permitted to assign night shifts to female employees. These include mandatory written consent from women workers, round-the-clock CCTV surveillance, deployment of female security staff, and provision of secure transport facilities.
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“Written consent of female employees will be required prior to assigning night shifts. Workplaces must have CCTV surveillance, female security guards, and secure transport facilities. Each establishment must also constitute an Internal Complaints Committee under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act. Furthermore, restrooms, toilets, lockers, and other basic amenities must be provided," the government stated.
In addition, employers will be required to pay wages via electronic transfer and extend all statutory benefits such as ESI, provident fund, bonuses, weekly offs, and overtime pay. An Internal Complaints Committee will also be compulsory at every workplace to address any issues related to sexual harassment.
The chief minister also pointed out that other states such as Haryana, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu already have similar policies in place, indicating Delhi is catching up with progressive workforce standards.
LG's Nod Needed For Approval
With the policy now awaiting the Lieutenant Governor’s approval, the capital is one step closer to embracing a more inclusive and economically active night-time environment—built on the foundation of safety and equality.