12-Hour Work Bill Withdrawn; Workers Celebrate Victory

Pimpri : In a major decision for workers in Maharashtra, the proposed 12-hour work bill has been withdrawn by the state government, a move that has been welcomed by labour organisations across the state. Workers celebrated the decision by distributing sweets, calling it a victory for the labour movement.

The agitation led by the Kashtakari Sangharsh Mahasangh against the proposed increase in working hours played a key role in the withdrawal of the bill. Protests and representations were made in Pimpri-Chinchwad and Mumbai opposing the decision.

Labour leader Kashinath Nakhate said the decision was a victory of workers’ unity and struggle and assured that the fight for workers’ rights would continue in the future.

The state government had proposed amendments to the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act to increase working hours in shops, private establishments, and factories. The proposal included increasing working hours up to 12 hours and allowing six hours of continuous work without a break, which was strongly opposed by labour unions.

Labour organisations reiterated the internationally accepted principle of “8 hours work, 8 hours rest, and 8 hours for family,” stating that longer working hours would negatively affect workers’ health, family life, and children’s education.

Following the government’s decision to withdraw the bill, workers and union members expressed relief and satisfaction, calling it a major success for the labour movement.