The Andhra Pradesh government, led by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), has announced a decision to amend labor laws to increase the daily working hours for employees in private companies and factories from nine to ten hours. This policy change aims to attract more investments and industrial development in the state. However, the move has sparked strong backlash from trade unions, which have criticized the decision, claiming it exploits workers by excessively extending their workday and likening the working conditions to “slavery.”

This change marks a significant shift from the existing labor regulations under the Andhra Pradesh Shops and Establishments Act, 1988, which stipulate a standard of 8 working hours per day and 48 hours per week, with mandatory rest intervals.

Trade unions have expressed strong opposition to the government’s decision, arguing that the extended work hours could lead to worker exploitation and deteriorating working conditions. They have called for the government to reconsider the amendment and engage in dialogue with labor representatives to address their concerns.

This development underscores the ongoing tension between economic development initiatives and workers’ rights in Andhra Pradesh. As the state seeks to attract more investments, the government faces the challenge of balancing industrial growth with the welfare and rights of its workforce.

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