Commercial establishments may remain open 24×7 in India

It’s not uncommon to find shops, restaurants and shopping malls open round-the-clock across the world. India too has taken a step forward towards keeping its commercial establishments open to the public at any given time of the day.

The Union cabinet has approved the Model Shops and Establishments Bill, which will permit shops, malls, restaurants, banks and cinema halls – excluding manufacturing units – to choose their hours of operation.

Once adopted by the Indian states, in part or full, the model law will allow establishments employing 10 or more workers to operate through the year – with flexibility of work hours. In addition, once adopted by the states, this law will allow women to work in night shifts, while ensuring proper security for them.

The Model Shops and Establishments Bill will now be sent to the states and union territories, so they can adopt it in the current form or modify its provisions to their liking.