Indian Labour Laws on Working Hours: Holidays, Sundays and Overtime Compliance
                     Labour Law Working Hours: Can Companies Make Employees Work on Holidays and
Sundays?
In India, questions about whether companies can make employees work on holidays and Sundays
are common among both employers and workers. With businesses operating in varied sectors and
evolving labour law reforms, it’s essential to understand the legal framework governing working
hours, holiday work, weekly offs and overtime, so that companies remain compliant and employees
know their rights.
Understanding Working Hours in Indian Labour Law
Indian labour law contains several statutes regulating working hours and weekly holidays. Two of
the most important frameworks are the Factories Act, 1948 and the Shops and Establishments Acts
of various states.
The Factories Act, 1948
Adult workers cannot work more than 48 hours in a week. Workers are entitled to one weekly
holiday, usually Sunday. If a worker works on their weekly holiday, a substitute holiday must be
provided.
Shops and Establishments Acts
State laws mandate weekly offs, limits on daily working hours and rules on holiday work and
overtime pay.
Can Employers Require Work on Holidays and Sundays?
Yes, but with conditions. Employers may ask employees to work on Sundays if a substitute holiday
is provided. For national and festival holidays, employees are entitled to double wages or a
compensatory off.
Overtime and Compensation
Work beyond prescribed hours or on holidays generally attracts overtime wages, often at double
the regular rate, or compensatory leave.
Special Cases and Rotational Shifts
Industries such as healthcare, hospitality, IT and manufacturing may operate rotational shifts. Even
then, weekly offs and overtime compensation remain mandatory.
Why These Rules Matter
For employers, compliance avoids penalties and improves workforce relations. For employees,
awareness ensures fair compensation and lawful working conditions.
FAQs
1. Can a company make me work on Sunday? Yes, with substitute holiday or premium pay.
2. Is holiday work paid extra? Yes, usually double wages or compensatory off.
3. What if I work more than 48 hours? Overtime wages apply.
Conclusion
Employers can require holiday or Sunday work only by following labour laws on weekly offs,
overtime and compensation. Compliance builds a fair and sustainable workplace.