Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026: 10-Hour Workday & Women’s Night Shifts Approved
A New Reform That Could Change Daily Life
In 2026 we can watch many changes in our lives due to new amendments and AI Summit. In last two months first amendment was in budget 2026, stock exchange market now in working hours could be seen. Moreover AI Summit also added its contribution in IT companies and economy too.
Now we are going to discuss about the extension of working hours passed by the Gujarat Legislative Assembly under the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
The Gujarat Assembly has passed the Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which makes significant changes to working hours, overtime, and the scope of the law. The government claims this will boost trade and investment and provide relief to small businesses. This is being touted as a significant reform for ease of doing business and economic development.
The move is being seen as a significant change in workplace regulations, with the government stating that it will improve employment opportunities and support economic growth.
What the Government Said About the Bill
The legislation, titled the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Condition of Service) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was introduced by Labour, Skill Development and Employment Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya.
The Bill was passed after a debate in the House, with members from both the ruling side and the Opposition taking part in the discussion.
The Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was ultimately passed unanimously as the Opposition did not oppose it.
New Working Hours Rule — What Actually Changes
One of the major changes introduced through the Bill is the extension of permissible working hours.
Under the amended provision:
This part of the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026 directly affects offices, shops and service sector businesses.
Applicability of the Law Changed
The Bill also revises the scope of the Shops and Establishments Act in Gujarat.
Earlier: Applicable to establishments employing 10 or more workers
Now: Applicable only to units employing 20 or more employees
This change under the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026 is expected to give relief to small businesses.
Women Can Now Work Night Shifts — But With Conditions
A key feature of the amendment is the provision permitting women to work during night hours between 9 pm and 6 am, provided they give their consent.
Employers must ensure:
This provision in the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026 is being seen as a step toward women empowerment.
Overtime Rules Also Updated
Another important amendment relates to overtime.
Changes include:
Workers who are required to work beyond 10 hours a day or 48 hours a week will be entitled to overtime wages at twice their ordinary rate of pay under the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
Why This Matters for Public & Businesses
The provisions had already been brought into force by the Government of Gujarat through an ordinance issued in December last year, when the Assembly was not in session. The newly passed Bill replaces that ordinance and gives formal legislative backing.
Increase in the working hours would help customers also as 24/7 services keep them convenient in metro cities where people rush in late hours too and allowing women to work in night hours is a step forward in the direction of women empowerment.
But strict punishment would be given to the people who break the laws that are made for women security.
The Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026 marks a major shift in Gujarat’s labour framework, expanding flexibility for businesses while placing new responsibilities on employers, particularly in ensuring safety and welfare for women working night shifts.
This reform could reshape workplaces, business timings and employment opportunities across the state in the coming years.
What do you think about the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2026 — are longer work hours and night shifts for women a step forward or too risky? Drop your thoughts below, we’d love to hear your opinion!
Disclaimer: This article is published for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to verify details from official sources before making any decisions. The website is not responsible for any loss or damage arising from the use of this information.
