Bhubaneswar: The Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Tuesday raised sharp concerns over the BJP-led Odisha government’s labour reforms, warning that the measures could compromise workers’ rights and women’s safety if implemented without adequate safeguards.
The criticism came a day after the state Cabinet approved amendments to key labour laws, including the Factories Act, 1948, and the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1956.
The reforms seek to extend daily working hours from 9 to 10 while capping the weekly limit at 48 hours, permit women to work night shifts, and increase overtime wages, with the stated goal of attracting investment and boosting industrial growth.
Addressing a press conference at the party’s state headquarters, BJD trade union leader and Cuttack Mayor Subhas Singh said the reforms risk tilting the balance against workers.
“If these changes are pushed through without strong riders, labourers will lose the ability to resist exploitative practices and may be forced into longer hours. Women working at night will also face serious safety concerns,” he cautioned.
While acknowledging the government’s intention to accelerate economic activity, Singh insisted that reforms must not come “at the expense of dignity and rights, particularly for contract and casual workers.”
He stressed that overtime should remain strictly voluntary and pointed to gaps in enforcement and monitoring mechanisms. “Who will ensure compliance across thousands of establishments?” he asked, calling for a better-funded inspectorate with digital wage tracking and surprise audit powers.
On the provision allowing women to work night shifts, Singh demanded the publication of detailed safety guidelines and accountability mechanisms.
Echoing his concerns, BJD’s chief whip Pramila Mallik questioned the government’s assurances: “What does written consent from women employees really mean? The government must guarantee their complete safety—both at the workplace and during travel.”
The BJD reiterated that reforms in labour laws must empower farmers and workers, not weaken their protections.
