In a significant step toward workplace reform, the Delhi government has officially allowed women employees to work night shifts across shops and commercial establishments. The decision, formalized through a notification issued by the Lieutenant Governor, amends the provisions of the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, 1954. While the announcement was initially made by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta in July, the Labour Department has now issued a detailed guideline to ensure safety, welfare, and legal compliance for women working during night hours.

Under the new rules, all shops and commercial establishments—except liquor outlets—may employ women during night shifts provided they adhere to prescribed safety measures, including secure transportation, adequate security personnel, and CCTV coverage. No woman will be forced to work exclusively at night, and continuous work beyond five hours without a break is prohibited. Additionally, working hours must not exceed nine hours a day or 48 hours a week, ensuring compliance with labor regulations and protecting the health and welfare of female employees.

Employers are also obligated to provide statutory benefits such as provident fund (PF), Employees’ State Insurance (ESI), bonuses, and leave entitlements. Overtime work and national holiday shifts require double wages and compensatory leave. Every establishment must constitute an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) as per the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. Women’s prior consent is mandatory before assigning them to night shifts, and a copy of the notification must be prominently displayed at all workplaces. These measures aim to create a safer and legally compliant environment for women in Delhi’s workforce.