Debate over 90-hour work week heats up, IIT professor speaks out, asks corporate bosses to pay for...

The controversy surrounding the 90-hour workweek has taken a new turn, with an IIT professor highlighting a significant issue: the lack of overtime pay in India. The debate has sparked discussions, memes, and reactions from corporate leaders and the public alike.

Nirmalya Kajuri, an assistant professor of Physics at IIT Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, voiced his opinion on X, stating, "If India strictly implements overtime pay for 40+ hours of work per week, all the corporate bosses who are now advocating that employees work 70-90 hours a week will become the biggest champions of work-life balance."

Sharing his personal experiences, Kajuri contrasted work conditions abroad with those in India. He noted that while employees in countries like the US, Europe, and China are compensated for overtime and even provided meals during late shifts, Indian companies often demand 50-60 hours of work weekly without additional pay. His post has sparked widespread discussion.

Responding to comments, Kajuri clarified that Indian law provides for overtime pay under the Shops and Establishment Act for employees working over 48 hours. However, the law is poorly enforced, leaving many workers without fair compensation.

The debate gained traction following remarks by L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan, who advocated for a 90-hour workweek, lamenting the inability to make employees work on Sundays. His comments triggered backlash, with critics questioning the ethicality of such demands.

Many social media users supported Kajuri’s stance, calling for incentives beyond 40 hours a week. Others pointed out the exploitation of labor in developing nations due to an abundant workforce.

The heated discussions underscore the growing demand for better work-life balance and fair treatment in India’s corporate sector.