Public Interest Litigation – Against 12-Hour Workday for Workers Case:

Public Interest Litigation – Against 12-Hour Workday for Workers

Case:
The Government of Maharashtra has decided to increase the working hours of factory workers from 9 to 12 hours. This decision is unjust, unconstitutional, and harmful to the health and dignity of workers.

Petitioner

Arun Ramchandra Pangarkar
अरुण रामचन्द्र पांगारकर
Social Activist, Writer

Respondents

1. Government of Maharashtra (Chief Secretary)
2. Government of India – Ministry of Labour and Employment
3. Government of Maharashtra – Ministry of Industries

Grounds

1. Violation of the Constitution
   – Article 21: Right to life with dignity
   – Article 23: Prohibition of forced and bonded labour
   – Article 39: Duty of the State to protect workers’ health and family life
2. Violation of International Standards
   – ILO (International Labour Organization) norms mandate an 8-hour workday
3. Adverse Impact on Workers
   – Serious health hazards and risk of accidents
   – No time left for family and social life
   – “Voluntary overtime” is in reality coercion
   – Reversal of the historic labour movement slogan: “8 hours work, 8 hours rest, 8 hours for ourselves”

Prayers (Reliefs Sought)

1. To strike down the Cabinet decision extending working hours to 12.
2. To strictly enforce the 8-hour workday law.
3. To issue clear guidelines to safeguard workers’ health, safety, and dignity.
4. To pass any other orders deemed fit by this Hon’ble Court.

Interim Relief

Until the final hearing, direct that the 12-hour workday decision shall not be implemented.

✍️ Petitioner:
Arun Ramchandra Pangarkar
अरुण रामचन्द्र पांगारकर