Gujarat Paves the Way for Women’s Workforce Expansion with Landmark Bill

In a significant policy move, the Gujarat Assembly has unanimously passed the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The amendment allows night shifts for women, increases daily working hours from 9 to 10 hours and raises the overtime limit. Introduced by Labour, Skill Development and Employment Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya, the Bill replaces an ordinance issued in December last year.

Night Shifts for Women: What the New Law Allows

The amendment formally permits night shifts for women between 9 pm and 6 am, subject to strict safeguards.

Key provisions include,

• Employment only with woman employee’s consent
• Mandatory rest rooms and ladies toilets
• Provision for night creche facilities
• Protection of dignity, honour, and safety
• Measures against sexual harassment
• Transportation from workplace to residence

These safeguards aim to balance expanded work opportunities with employee safety and welfare.

10-Hour Daily Work Limit Introduced

The Bill revises working hour regulations across shops and establishments.

Earlier Rule	New Rule
9 hours per day	10 hours per day
48 hours per week	48 hours per week (unchanged)

Updated condition

• No employee to work more than 10 hours a day
• Weekly cap remains 48 hours
• Continuous work beyond 6 hours prohibited
• Mandatory 30-minute break

This change provides operational flexibility while retaining worker protection norms.

Overtime Limit Raised to 144 Hours

Overtime provisions have been expanded under the amendment.

• Previous limit: 125 hours (3 months)
• New limit: 144 hours (3 months)
• Wage protection: Overtime paid at twice the ordinary wage rate

This adjustment supports sectors requiring peak-hour staffing while preserving overtime compensation rights.

Government’s Regulatory Powers Retained

Despite permitting night shifts for women, the state government retains oversight authority.

Provision states,

• Government may prohibit or regulate employment of women
• Applicable between 9 pm and 6 am
• Based on public interest considerations

This ensures flexibility for future restrictions in specific sectors or regions.

Ordinance Replaced by Legislation

The provisions were initially introduced through a December ordinance when the Assembly was not in session.

• Amendment Bill now replaces the ordinance
• Passed unanimously
• Opposition raised implementation concerns
• Government assured strict enforcement

Question

Q. Which of the following safeguards is included for women working night shifts?

A) Mandatory restrooms and creche facilities
B) Protection of dignity, honour, and safety
C) Transportation from workplace to residence
D) All of the above