Srinagar, Sep 03: Jammu and Kashmir Labour Commissioner on Tuesday said that the Shops and establishments in J&K must strictly observe their designated off-day once a week, as required by the rules.
According to a circular, a copy of which lies with Rising Kashmir reads that in line with Section-13 of the Jammu and Kashmir Shops & Establishment Act, 1966, all shops and commercial establishments registered under the Act must close entirely one day each week. However, the department has found that many shop owners are not adhering to this rule.s
It also said that employers are prohibited from requiring employees to work on their shop’s designated “Close Day” and cannot deduct wages for this day off.
To ensure compliance, the Labour Commissioner has directed all shop owners in Jammu and Kashmir to observe the mandatory “Close Day.”
All Assistant Labour Commissioners (ALCs) have been instructed to enforce this rule in their districts, it said adding that if any shop or establishment is found violating the provisions, legal action will be taken under Section-38 of the Act.
It further said that the directive is issued to protect workers’ welfare and ensure the law is followed. ALCs have also been asked to monitor compliance and submit a report on the action taken by the 3rd of every month, it added.
