The 2018 Right to Disconnect Bill, presented by MP Supriya Sule, proposes granting employees the right to decline after-hours work communication. The bill responds to the increasing overlap of personal and professional time due to digital work tools.
The legislation recommends that companies formalise communication guidelines, outline emergency exceptions and establish committees to address grievances related to constant connectivity. It also proposes compensation mechanisms for duties performed outside normal hours.
Speaking on the issue, Sunil Chemmankotil, Country Manager, Adecco India, said:
“Clear rest boundaries are crucial in a digitally driven workforce. A phased, well-timed rollout aligned with new labour laws will allow India to strengthen the future of work without disrupting operations.”
The bill clarifies that employees cannot be penalised for refusing after-hours engagement. It has not been passed by Parliament, and India does not currently have such a law in force.
