Bengaluru: IT employees rise in protest against proposal to extend work hours to 12 per day

A fresh wave of discontent is brewing among Karnataka’s IT workforce following a controversial proposal by the state’s labour department to increase daily working hours from 9 to 12. The move has triggered strong opposition from the Karnataka IT Employees Union (KITU) and has sparked online and on-ground protests across Bengaluru.

Also Read:Karnataka: IT/ITes employees slams government’s proposal to extend work hours to 12 a day

According to KITU, the proposed amendment would severely affect the mental and physical well-being of tech professionals, many of whom are already dealing with burnout, stress, and disrupted work-life balance. Suhas Adiga, the union’s general secretary, expressed outrage, stating that any increase in working hours would be a direct assault on the basic rights of employees and would further erode personal and family time.

In 2024, IT employees had successfully resisted a similar proposal. Now, with the new push to extend work hours, they are preparing for a larger and more organized protest. Activism has already begun on social media platforms, and some IT professionals have staged symbolic demonstrations in tech corridors of the city.

The union also warned of potential side effects if the proposal is implemented. These include the collapse of the existing three-shift system, leading to just two extended shifts, and a possible reduction in workforce, as longer shifts may require fewer employees. There are also concerns about increased psychological stress, deteriorating health, and strain on family life.

Despite the government's reasoning that it may benefit companies operationally, IT professionals argue that any economic gain for corporations should not come at the cost of employee welfare.