The Telangana government has granted permission for shops and businesses in the state to operate until 5 a.m. during the holy month of Ramadan. This exemption from certain provisions of the Telangana Shops and Establishments Act 1988 will be effective from February 19 to March 20. Shops and hotels are allowed to conduct business until ‘Sehri’ or 5 a.m. daily.
The Labour Commissioner, M. Dana Kishore, emphasized that overtime wages must be paid as per the Act, and compensatory holidays should be provided to employees working on holidays. The directive also states that the daily work duration should not exceed 13 hours. Female employees are excused from additional work hours, with a restriction on working after 8.30 p.m.
Furthermore, Muslim employees in Telangana have been permitted to leave offices an hour early during Ramzan. A similar provision has been made in Andhra Pradesh, allowing Muslim employees to depart from offices at 4 p.m. The fasting month of Ramadan is set to commence on February 19, as confirmed by the sighting of the new crescent.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy extended warm wishes to the Muslim community on the commencement of the holy month of Ramzan. He acknowledged the significance of fasting and prayers during this period, highlighting the spiritual and disciplined aspects. Reddy emphasized Telangana’s commitment to upholding secularism and religious harmony, wishing the Muslim community a joyous and blessed Ramadan celebration.
