Working on Indian Holidays for a UK Company: Should We Get Extra Pay or Is It Optional?

We work for a UK company and have opted for UK holidays. If we work on Indian holidays such as Independence Day, Republic Day, May Day, or Diwali, should the company pay a special allowance? Is this in line with legislation, or is it at the company's discretion to provide compensation to employees?

Please clarify. Are you working in India or in the UK?

Dear Friend,

If you are working in India, the Indian laws will be applicable. Presuming that it is an office, the Shops & Establishments Act of that particular state will be applicable (where your office is located), and accordingly, the leaves and holidays eligibility will be as per that Act.

Warm Regards,

Bharat Gera
HR Consultant
9322404765

Hi Bharath,

We work in Bangalore. Should the company pay extra allowance for working on that day, or can they grant a comp off?

If you are working in India and are governed under the provisions of the Shop Act, then for working on any National Holiday, such as 26th January, 15th August, and 1st May, the company will have to pay double the salary and provide one holiday. This is as per The Maharashtra Shops and Establishment Act, Section 18(7).

Hi Pankaj,

Thank you for the update. How do I check if my company comes under that act? Is it only operational HR that can tell?