The Government of Haryana has officially issued a notification allowing women employees to work during night shifts (8:00 PM to 6:00 AM) in all shops and commercial establishments across the state.
This move aims to promote gender inclusivity in the workforce while ensuring women’s safety, security, and welfare through a detailed set of conditions. The exemption is provided under Section 28 of the Haryana Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1958.
🔑 Key Highlights of the Notification
🗓️ Application and Validity
- Establishments must apply online for exemption at least two weeks before the night work period begins.
- The exemption will be granted automatically based on self-certification.
- Each exemption remains valid for one year, and any change in security or transport arrangements must be updated online.
🧾 Mandatory Compliance
- Establishments must comply with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
- Written consent is required from every woman employee agreeing to work at night.
📹 Workplace Safety and Security
- CCTV coverage and proper lighting must be ensured inside and around the premises.
- Sufficient security guards are mandatory during night shifts.
- Employers must have verified security personnel in workplaces and vehicles.
🚗 Transport and Safety Measures
- Free, secure transport from residence to workplace and back must be provided.
- All vehicles must have GPS tracking.
- Routes and driver changes must be monitored by the supervisory officer.
- No woman should be picked up first or dropped off last without a verified security guard.
- Women can opt out of transport if they choose to commute on their own.
- Establishments may tie up with external transporters to arrange pooled facilities.
👩💼 Employment Conditions
- Women should work in batches of at least four.
- In IT and ITeS sectors, this may be relaxed for senior women earning above ₹1 lakh/month who give written consent.
- Employers must ensure medical tie-ups with nearby hospitals and display emergency contact numbers prominently.
🤰 Maternity and Health Protection
- The exemption does not apply to women during 12 weeks before and after childbirth, miscarriage, or medical termination of pregnancy.
- Additional leave may be allowed as recommended by medical authorities.
🏢 Accommodation Rules
- If the employer provides boarding and lodging, such facilities must be exclusive for women and under the supervision of a female officer.
⚖️ Legal Compliance
Employers must comply with:
- Haryana Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1958
- Maternity Benefit Act, 1961
- Equal Remuneration Act, 1976
- and other applicable labour laws.
📜 Display Requirement
A copy of this notification must be prominently displayed at the entrance or exit of every establishment employing women in night shifts.
🗣️ Conclusion
The Haryana Government’s decision reflects a progressive step toward gender equality in the workplace, balancing economic opportunity with strong safety norms. With the right safeguards in place, women professionals across sectors will gain the freedom to contribute to night-shift operations safely and confidently.