Row erupts as Karnataka IT firms propose 14 hour workday 

Last year, N.R. Narayana Murthy, co-founder of Infosys, sparked controversy by proposing that young Indians should be ready to dedicate 70 hours per week to work.  

The ongoing debate in Karnataka’s tech industry has intensified as IT companies push for an extension of the daily working hours to 14 hours. This controversial proposal, which aims to increase the weekly work limit to 70 hours, has ignited a firestorm of criticism from employees and labor unions. Currently, workers are capped at a 12-hour day, encompassing 10 regular hours plus 2 hours of overtime. Many employees have taken to social media to voice their frustration, labeling the plan as “inhumane”, tantamount to slavery, and expressing fears over potential health problems and job cuts.  

The Karnataka State IT/ITeS Employees Union (KITU) has also strongly opposed the proposal, urging the state government to reconsider this “inhuman attempt to impose slavery”. KITU highlighted research showing the negative impact of long working hours on employees’ health. They reported that IT workers are already dealing with significant mental and physical health issues, and extending working hours would only exacerbate these problems.  

NASSCOM, a major trade association for the Indian IT industry, has also weighed in, emphasizing support for the standard 48-hour work week practiced across the country, rather than the proposed 70-hour week.  

This proposal is not the only contentious issue facing Karnataka. The Karnataka State Employment of Local Industries Factories Establishment Act Bill, 2024, has also stirred significant debate. The bill, which seeks to reserve 50% of management jobs and 75% of non-management jobs for locals in the private sector, faced immediate backlash from industry bodies and stakeholders, leading to its swift suspension.  

Understanding the perspectives of both employees and their families regarding these proposals is crucial. Employees, who once hoped for a better work-life balance, now fear that the extended working hours could lead to increased stress, burnout, and less quality time with their families. Parents are concerned about the impact on their children, as longer working hours could reduce the time spent with them, affecting family dynamics and children’s well-being.  

Initially, the concept of work-life balance was seen as a progressive step towards healthier living and increased productivity. However, with changing rules and increasing demands, many fear that these ideals are being eroded. Employees are now advocating for policies that truly support a balanced life, allowing them to thrive both professionally and personally. 

As these debates continue, it remains to be seen how the Karnataka government will respond to the concerns of employees and industry bodies, and whether a middle ground can be found that ensures both economic growth and the well-being of workers.