Understanding the Sandwich Rule: Does It Apply to Leave Around Gazetted Holidays in Pakistan?

Hi, everyone, I hope you all are in good health and spirits! I am Maria, a seasoned HR professional working with a clothing brand in Pakistan. I want to confirm if the sandwich rule is considered when an employee takes leave before and after Gazetted Holidays. Kindly guide me according to Labour Laws. Your cooperation in this regard shall be highly appreciated.

Hi, leave taken before and after a declared holiday needs to be considered as a sandwich holiday in general. However, you need to verify whether this policy would be applicable to your region.

In the Factories Act in India, the sandwich rule is not applicable. However, standing orders provide for it, making it applicable.

Considerations for the Sandwich Rule

You need to consider a combination of:
- Factory Act, Rules, notifications
- Standing Orders (as applicable to your factory, by whatever name it may be called)
- Any provisions of terms of employment (e.g., specified in the appointment letter)
- Employee Handbook

You should choose the one most beneficial to the employee or the one designed to override the others.