24-hour shops to be reality in Ahmedabad

GANDHINAGAR: The Gujarat government’s recent promise to allow shops and establishments remain open round the clock may soon be a reality. ‘The Gujarat Shops and Establishment Amendment Act’ is likely to get notified for implementation from May 1 when the state celebrates Gujarat Foundation Day.
In February, a bill was passed in the state assembly to amend an earlier act that had prevented shops and establishments from doing business from 12 midnight to 6 am, raising hopes. Vipul Mittra, additional chief secretary (ACS), labour & employment department said, “The governor has approved the bill and now the act is likely to be implemented from May 1 across the state. The draft rules are almost finalized and will be notified shortly.’’

On implementation of the law, shops and establishments can run their business through the night.

“All restaurants on national and state highways, petrol pump, hospitals, hotels will be allowed to remain open round the clock including those in municipal corporation areas. In municipalities, shops will be allowed to remain open till 11pm’’, Mittra added.

In special cases like law and order issues and traffic issues the authorities can force closure of shops and establishments at night, but it cannot be for a period longer than 15 days. The amendment will also spare small shop owners from the hassles of registration and renewals.

The new law will boost the income of the traders besides generating new employment. The government has taken steps to introduce series of reforms which will not only free the shops and establishments from age old obsolete regulations but take care of employee welfare.

Women employees could now work from 6am to 9 pm and facilities of creches will be provided where there are more than 30 women employees. The employer will also have to provide the facility of canteen where there are more than hundred employees.

Shops and establishments employing less than 10 employees will not require to take certificates. They just need to inform the local authority in writing online within 30 days of starting business.

Over 7 lakh units employing 10 lakh persons are registered under the Gujarat Shops and Establishments Act. For employees working in such units, the government has proposed increase in overtime remuneration.