Why in News?
With rising digital connectivity and blurred work–life boundaries, a Private Member’s Bill has been reintroduced in Lok Sabha to grant employees a statutory Right to Disconnect—i.e., the right to refuse work-related communication after working hours.
Description:
About the Bill:
- Introduced by Supriya Sule (NCP–SP) as a Private Member’s Bill.
- Similar Bill introduced earlier in 2019 (also by Sule).
- Seeks amendments to the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code (OSHWC) Amendment Bill, 2025 (introduced by Shashi Tharoor).
- Applies to companies with >10 workers (negotiation mandatory with employee representatives).
| Feature | Private Member’s Bill | Government Bill |
| Who introduces it? | Any MP who is not a Minister | A Minister (on behalf of the Government) |
| Government support? | Not required; usually absent | Has full government backing |
| Chances of passing | Very low (Only 14 passed since 1950) | Very high |
| Business allocation | Discussed only on Fridays | Can be taken up any day |
| Financial Bills? | Cannot introduce Money/Finance Bills | Govt. can introduce all Bills |
Important Facts:
- Growing international practice: France (2017), Portugal (2021), Australia (2023) have legislated the right.
- Study cited: Constant monitoring of work-related communication → sleep deprivation, stress, burnout, and “infobesity.”
- Private Member’s Bills rarely pass: Only 14 passed since independence.
Key Terms:
- Right to Disconnect: Legal right to refuse work-related calls/emails beyond office hours.
- Infobesity: Cognitive overload due to constant digital communication.
- Digital Detox Centres: Facilities proposed to address stress and improve work–life balance.
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