My employer in Kota makes me work 60 hours a week, what is the legal limit on weekly working hours?

Detailed Legal Analysis

The legal limit on weekly working hours in India is 48 hours, as stipulated by the Factories Act, 1948, and the Shops and Establishments Act applicable in various states, including Rajasthan.

According to the Factories Act, 1948:

• The maximum number of hours that an adult worker can be employed in a factory is 48 hours per week (Section 51).
• Any work carried out beyond these hours is considered overtime, and the employer is required to pay at least twice the ordinary rate of wages for such overtime (Section 59).

In addition, the Shops and Establishments Act of Rajasthan, which governs working conditions in commercial establishments, also supports similar provisions:

• The Act limits the working hours for employees in shops and commercial establishments to a maximum of 48 hours per week.
• Any work exceeding these hours is treated as overtime and must be compensated accordingly as specified in the Act.

Furthermore, employees are entitled to a minimum of one day off for every week worked (Section 52 of the Factories Act and relevant provisions in the Shops and Establishments Act).

If you are working 60 hours a week, your employer is violating these legal provisions. You have the right to:

• File a complaint with the local labor commissioner or the appropriate authority in Rajasthan.
• Seek redressal and enforcement of your rights under the applicable labor laws.

It is advisable to document your working hours and any communication regarding your work schedule. You may also consider seeking legal advice or assistance from labor unions or legal professionals specializing in labor law to address your situation effectively.

In conclusion, the legal maximum working hours in India are 48 hours a week, and working beyond this limit without proper overtime compensation constitutes a violation of labor laws.