The Delhi Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Act, 2026, represents a significant update. Receiving Presidential assent on February 23, 2026, the Act introduces several key changes regarding applicability, working hours, and the employment of women.
Major Changes & Provisions
- Expanded Applicability Threshold: The Act now specifically applies to shops and establishments that employ 20 or more employees.
- Revised Working Hours (Section 8):
- Daily working hours are increased from nine to 10 hours, which must now include rest intervals and lunch breaks.
- Weekly overtime limits have been raised to 60 hours (previously 54).
- The annual cap on aggregate overtime hours has been replaced with a quarterly limit of 144 hours.
- Intervals for Rest (Section 10 & 11):
- The maximum period of continuous work before a rest interval is extended from five to six hours.
- The “spread-over” (total time an employee can be at the establishment in a day) is standardized to 12 hours for all establishments.
- Night Shift Regulations for Women (Section 14):
- Women are now entitled to work in all establishments and may be employed during night hours: 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM in summer and 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM in winter.
- Employment during these hours requires the woman’s written consent.
- Employers must provide CCTV surveillance, security, and transportation for night shifts.
- A minimum of two women must be employed during these night periods.
- Employee Protections:
- Employers are prohibited from knowingly employing a woman for six weeks following a confinement or miscarriage.
- “Young persons” remain strictly prohibited from working during the night.
- Establishments must comply with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013