Insights on Attendance and Participation in Independence Day Celebrations in India

Can a PSU employer in India make attendance and participation in Independence Day celebrations compulsory?

In India, it is common for organizations, including PSU employers, to celebrate Independence Day with various activities and events. However, the question of whether attendance and participation in these celebrations can be made compulsory raises important considerations regarding individual freedom and choice. While promoting a sense of patriotism and national pride is commendable, mandating participation in such events may infringe upon employees' rights to personal autonomy. It is essential for employers to strike a balance between fostering a spirit of national unity and respecting the diverse perspectives and beliefs of their workforce. Collaboration and consensus-building are key in ensuring that employees feel valued and included in organizational initiatives, including national celebrations.

Attendance at independence celebrations cannot be made compulsory; it should be embraced as a reflection of national spirit. This sentiment should be ingrained in the hearts of each and every citizen of India, rather than only showcasing pride and glory when the Indian cricket team is on the field. Even when independence celebrations are sponsored by foreign companies, I believe that nobody should label an individual's absence as "absent." Will the HRMS support this perspective?

Madhu.T.K

Dear friend,

No employee is bound to work on 15th August, 2nd October, and 26th January, and no employer can mark anyone absent on these days. Employers can call employees on these days for some cultural programs. If any firm is found operating on these days, the labor department can impose fines on that unit, and the department also has the power to seal the unit.

Thanks,
Pawan Bhatia
09812585353

Well said, Madhu.

Pon.

Dear All,

I agree with Mr. Madhu; we need to participate in the Independence Day celebration. This is the day on which all Indians need to cherish, in spite of diversity, as this festival is for all.

It is not simply a question of compulsory attendance; it is a matter of being Indian and feeling proud about it. It assumes more importance when you are a government/PSU employee and set an example. As far as attendance is concerned, the circulars issued by the government departments are amply clear, as are the Civil Services rules.

Dilip

Dear Friends,

Independence Day is a national holiday, which means it is a paid holiday. Apart from that, all institutions should raise the National Flag and showcase the inspiration of national glory to everyone. If the unit is a continuous process, observe according to the statutory rules.

Regards,
PBS KUMAR

Dear friend,

No employee is bound to work on 15th August, 2nd October, and 26th January, and no employer can mark them absent on these days. Employers can call employees on these days for cultural programs. If any firm is found operating on these days, the labor department can impose fines on that unit and also has the authority to seal the unit.

Thanks,
Pawan Bhatia
09812585353

Dear Mr. Bhatia,

It is not compulsory that all firms are closed, especially in the hotel industry. National holidays are days when business is at its peak. However, the HR and Administration Departments are closed while all Operational Departments remain open.

Dear Pawan,

It seems you have misinterpreted the question. The question is not about attendance for doing any work in the company, but for attendance to celebrate the Independence Day. Employees are set free to leave for their homes after the celebration is over in any organization.

Even if the employer calls an employee to work on any national holiday, the employer becomes liable to pay double the rate of overtime allowance or the double rate of daily wage as the case may be. Absence on call by an employer can be treated as misconduct on the part of the employee, whether called for the celebration of the Independence Day or to work.

Attendance on Independence Day

I accept Mr. Madhu's answer. Super answer because we are Indians.

Dear Satish,

An employee can be called to work on any holiday with compensatory off or with OTA in lieu of their attendance, except on three national holidays for which only double monetary compensation than the normal becomes due to employees. The three national holidays, as declared by the Government of India, are Republic Day (26th January), Independence Day (15th August), and Mahatma Gandhi's Birthday (2nd October).