Telangana allows Muslim employees to leave early during Ramzan, sparks debate

The Telangana government has announced a special relaxation for Muslim employees in government offices, public sector units, and educational institutions during the holy month of Ramzan. As per an official circular from the General Administration Department, Muslim employees will be allowed to leave work an hour earlier, at 4:00 pm instead of 5:00 pm, from March 2 to March 31, 2025.

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The directive applies to all Muslim employees, including teachers, contract and outsourcing staff, and those working in government boards, corporations, and public sector units. The move aims to facilitate religious observances and support employees in fulfilling their fasting and prayer commitments during Ramzan.

However, the decision has led to criticism from opposition leaders, particularly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who argue that it reflects favoritism. BJP leaders have accused the ruling party of engaging in appeasement politics, claiming that such policies create divisions among different religious communities.

Despite the political backlash, the Telangana government maintains that the relaxation is a goodwill measure intended to support employees during the fasting period. The move follows similar accommodations made in the past for various religious festivals and observances. As discussions continue, the decision remains a point of contention in the state’s political landscape.