Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Sept 10: To discuss the implications of the recent order regarding ‘Close Day’ compliance on the business community, Gaurav Gupta, former General Secretary of the CCIJ today called on Charandeep Singh, Labour Commissioner, Jammu,
During the meeting, Gupta strongly advocated for modernizing the Jammu and Kashmir Shops and Establishments Act to align with the Model Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Bill, 2016.
He emphasized that the current labour laws in Jammu and Kashmir are based on outdated regulations from the 19th century and pointed out that while India updated these laws post-independence, many States have since adopted the 2016 Model Bill, which provides businesses with greater operational flexibility.
Gupta expressed concern over the mandatory ‘Close Day’ policy and highlighted that closing shops on designated days could inconvenience tourists and harm local businesses.
Additionally, he warned that establishments dealing with perishable goods may face financial losses due to product spoilage caused by such closures.
He said, “The period and hours of work for all classes of employees, particularly in shift operations, should be clearly communicated to workers and reported to the Facilitator electronically or otherwise.”
Gupta further urged the Labour Department to take the business community’s concerns into account.
Labour Commissioner, Charandeep Singh noted the concerns raised during the meeting and assured that the department would continue to work towards betterment of the stakeholders including modernizing labour laws in Jammu and Kashmir.