The karnataka government's proposal to extend working hours in the IT sector to 12 hours a day has sparked widespread opposition from professionals, unions, and mental health experts alike. While the intent may be to boost economic output or align with global time zones, critics argue that such a move is counterproductive in the long run. Extended work hours can severely affect employee well-being, leading to chronic fatigue, reduced job satisfaction, and a potential spike in burnout cases. Numerous global studies have shown that working more than 55 hours a week increases the risk of stroke by 35% and heart disease by 17%, making the health implications of such a policy deeply concerning.
Beyond physical health, the mental toll of longer hours is equally alarming. Constant exposure to high-pressure environments without adequate rest can lead to a rise in anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. The IT industry, already notorious for tight deadlines and intense workloads, could see a surge in attrition as employees seek healthier work-life balance elsewhere. Moreover, if companies shift to a two-shift system to accommodate the new hours, it could ironically result in job losses, eliminating up to one-third of existing roles. This not only undermines the intent to improve productivity but also destabilizes the employment landscape for thousands in Bengaluru, India's tech hub.
Economically, the proposed extension lacks convincing evidence of benefit. Increased working hours do not necessarily translate to increased productivity; in fact, overworked employees often deliver diminishing returns. The reputation of Bengaluru as a global IT destination may also suffer, deterring both investment and top talent. Companies operating in international markets may reconsider setting up or expanding operations in a region seen as regressive in labor policies. With trade unions firmly opposing the proposal and industry voices raising red flags, the government faces mounting pressure to reconsider the move and prioritize sustainable, employee-friendly policies over short-term economic calculations.
Beyond physical health, the mental toll of longer hours is equally alarming. Constant exposure to high-pressure environments without adequate rest can lead to a rise in anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. The IT industry, already notorious for tight deadlines and intense workloads, could see a surge in attrition as employees seek healthier work-life balance elsewhere. Moreover, if companies shift to a two-shift system to accommodate the new hours, it could ironically result in job losses, eliminating up to one-third of existing roles. This not only undermines the intent to improve productivity but also destabilizes the employment landscape for thousands in Bengaluru, India's tech hub.
Economically, the proposed extension lacks convincing evidence of benefit. Increased working hours do not necessarily translate to increased productivity; in fact, overworked employees often deliver diminishing returns. The reputation of Bengaluru as a global IT destination may also suffer, deterring both investment and top talent. Companies operating in international markets may reconsider setting up or expanding operations in a region seen as regressive in labor policies. With trade unions firmly opposing the proposal and industry voices raising red flags, the government faces mounting pressure to reconsider the move and prioritize sustainable, employee-friendly policies over short-term economic calculations.
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