Are Long Working Hours and Strict Punctuality Policies Driving Employees Away?

Nowadays, most of the companies (except BPOs and KPOs) are also working 15-17 hours.

Independence Day, but on that day, some companies are still operating. Their HR department informs other departments that they should continue working. Also, HR seniors establish policies regarding punctuality; if an employee is late, their salary may be deducted or leave affected. This is acceptable.

The HR department serves as the mediator between the employer and the employee. When an employee, especially in the finance department, works for 14-18 hours a day and is required to arrive on time as per policy, how will the employee react? Somewhere, the HR department needs to provide a solution. Otherwise, employees may become frustrated and decide to leave the company. Nowadays, companies offer good salaries and allowances, including dinner and late sitting benefits, but retaining experienced or high-caliber employees becomes difficult. Therefore, it is crucial for companies to retain their staff for extended periods.

Perhaps my perspective is incorrect? Any expert comments on this topic.

Hello,

Many companies are requiring employees to work more than the scheduled 8 hours, which can pose challenges. It becomes problematic when employees are engaged for more than 8 hours as overtime charges may apply. Even for staff-level positions, it is important not to pressure them to work 15-17 hours every day.

According to the Factories Act of 1948, an employee cannot be compelled to work for more than 13 hours in a day without special permission from the Area Factory Inspectorate.

Regards,
R. Sudhakar

Thank you, Mr. Sudhakar. I thought nobody is watching this topic. But sir, though companies are paying OT charges (Most of the companies are paying late-night allowance), they have to think about their employees' health also. What about Independence Day?

In my own company, we are paying grade-wise late-night allowance which is not more than Rs. 45/- for dinner and transport charges. In such a case, how can an employee work? But thanks for your information.

Dear Sudhakar,

I agree with your view. However, people are not fighting for their rights. They are fighting only for their salary. They are willing to sacrifice anything for their salary. This is the prevailing condition.

People should be aware that the 8-hour duty was established after the Industrial Revolution in Britain and is one of the ratified ILO conventions in India! Our Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, talks about various issues but neglects workers' rights. It's very shameful for the Left parties!

Warm Regards,
T. Muralidaran