Labour Commissioner, Nagaland, Er. S.L. Wati Aier has issued a clarification regarding Section 20 of the Nagaland Shops & Establishments Act, 1986 - Employment of women during night hours. It has clarified that, notwithstanding the wording of Section 20 of the Nagaland Shops & Establishments Act, 1982, there is no law, presently in force in the State of Nagaland, that prohibits women from working during night hours. It informed that women may be engaged in employment beyond 7:00 P.M. and/or before 6:00 A.M., subject to the following safeguards:

1.      Voluntary Consent - Employment during night hours shall be only with the voluntary and written consent of the concerned woman employee.

2.      Safety Measures - Adequate transport, lighting, and security arrangements shall be provided to ensure safety during travel and at the workplace.

3.      Compliance with Labour Laws - All provisions relating to working hours, overtime, rest intervals, and weekly holidays under the Act and relevant labour laws shall be complied with in full.

The Labour Commissioner added that the clarification shall be applicable with immediate effect and is issued with the approval of the competent authority.

(Wepre Kronu, APRO)