As the sun rises in India, workers like Rohan and Aditi begin their grueling 14-hour workdays for major multinational corporations without receiving any extra pay. This trend of long hours without compensation is not uncommon in the country, highlighting exploitative workplace practices.
MNCs Circumvent Law on Technicality
Despite labor laws in India stipulating overtime pay for certain workers, employees like Rohan and Aditi, categorized as “officers” or “executives,” are exempt from these benefits. Companies exploit legal loopholes to avoid compensating their employees for extra hours worked.
Laws Not in Keeping with the Times
The shift to remote work has blurred the lines between personal and professional time, making it challenging for employees to disconnect. Outdated labor laws fail to address modern labor practices, leaving workers vulnerable to exploitation by MNCs.
Can the Laws Be Challenged?
While there is limited precedence for MNC workers to demand overtime pay in court, recent rulings have shown promise for reclassifying certain employees under labor laws. The struggle continues for workers seeking fair compensation for their extensive hours.
From Economic Liberalization to Now
India’s economic growth post-liberalization created a demand for labor, but lax government oversight allowed companies to exploit loopholes in archaic laws. Trade unions, historically safeguarding labor rights, have weakened, leaving white-collar workers with limited representation.
A Worker Will Work
In the absence of strong regulations, workers like Rohan, Aditi, and Isha continue to navigate long work hours in the hopes of recognition or future payoff. The struggle for work-life balance persists as employees endure exhausting schedules without proper compensation.
*Names changed on request.
Edited by: Srinivas Mazumdaru
