Tamil Nadu Extends 24×7 Operations for Shops and Establishments

The Government of Tamil Nadu (GoTN) through a notification dated May 08, 2025 has extended the permission for all shops and establishments in Tamil Nadu employing 10 or more persons to operate 24×7 on all days of the year. This permission is effective for a period of three years from June 5, 2025, unless revoked earlier. This move aims to enhance operational flexibility while upholding employee welfare and rights. The permission to operate 24×7 is subject to several conditions to be followed by the employer.

These conditions are to be implemented in addition to existing provisions under the Tamil Nadu Shops and Establishments Act, 1947 (S&E Act) and the S&E Rules. Any violation of these statutory provisions or terms and conditions can result in necessary penal action against the employer or manager.

The key conditions to be followed by the employer for 24×7 operations are as follows:

• Employee Weekly Offs and Record Keeping: Every employee must receive one day holiday per week on a rotational basis. Daily records of employees on holiday or leave must also be displayed conspicuously in the establishment.

• Wages and Working Hours: Wages, including overtime wages, must be credited directly to the employees’ savings bank accounts. Normal work hours are capped at eight hours per day and forty-eight hours per week. The total period of work, including overtime, must not exceed ten and a half hours in any day and fifty-seven hours in a week.

• Provisions for Women Employees: Women employees generally should not be required to work beyond 8:00 P.M. on any day. However, with their written consent, women employees may be allowed to work between 8:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M., provided adequate protection of their dignity, honor, and safety is ensured. Transport arrangements must be provided to women employees who work in shifts. A notice indicating transport availability must be displayed at the main entrance.
• Amenities: The employees shall be provided with restroom, washroom, safety lockers and other basic amenities.