Maharashtra Government Allows Shops to Stay Open 24×7, With Exceptions

The Government of Maharashtra, through its Industries, Energy, Labour, and Mining Department, has issued a circular permitting theatres, cinemas, multiplexes, restaurants, shops, malls, and service establishments to operate round the clock, provided they comply with labour law regulations.

According to the Maharashtra Shops and Establishment (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2017: “Subject to the said notification, other shops and establishments can remain open 24×7… provided every worker is allowed a weekly holiday of at least 24 consecutive hours of rest.”

What Remains Limited

The sale and serving of liquor will remain time-bound and cannot operate round the clock. Meanwhile, grocery stores, clothing retailers, and pharmacies can stay open all night.

Conditions and Workers’ Protection

Workers in businesses operating 24×7 must be given a mandatory weekly off of 24 consecutive hours. Rules regarding working hours, rest intervals, overtime, and protections for female workers must be strictly followed. Businesses are required to restructure staffing or shift schedules to ensure workers’ rights are upheld.