Delhi set to allow women to work night shifts at shops, commercial establishments

In a major reform aimed at transforming Delhi into a round-the-clock business hub, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday approved a proposal to allow women to work night shifts at shops and commercial establishments.

"This is a significant step towards making Delhi a 24x7 business hub," Gupta said, adding that the decision would not only boost women's participation in the workforce but also improve the ease of doing business in the capital.

Officials said the proposal had earlier been discussed with Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena and has now been sent to him for formal approval.

The move involves amending key provisions of the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, 1954—notably sections 14, 15, and 16—which currently restrict women from working between 9 pm and 7 am during summers, and between 8 pm and 8 am in winters.

Gupta said several states, including Haryana, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, already permit night shifts for women. “It is time for Delhi to follow suit,” she said.

According to a statement issued by the Delhi government, the proposed changes will be accompanied by strict safeguards to ensure the safety and dignity of women employees working during night hours. These include:

• Mandatory transport arrangements for women working night shifts
• CCTV surveillance at all commercial establishments
• Deployment of security guards
• Written consent from women employees before assigning night duties
• Compliance with workplace safety norms
• Internal committees under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act
• Essential facilities such as toilets, restrooms, and lockers for women

The state government also said that wages must be paid through bank transfers or ECS, and all statutory benefits should be extended to night shift employees.