Haryana Shops and Commercial Establishments (Amendment) Act, 2026

The Labour Department of Haryana Government on 30th March 2026 issued a notification introducing further amendments to the Shops and Commercial Establishments framework, marking the second major update within the first two months of the year.

Exemption Provisions under Section 28

Establishments registering online through self-certification may be exempted from provisions relating to opening and closing hours and weekly close day, subject to compliance with specified working conditions.

Night shift employment for women between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM requires separate approval through an auto-mode system based on self-certification and prescribed safeguards.

Working Hours and Employment Conditions

The amended framework sets clear limits on working hours and employee welfare. Employees cannot work more than 48 hours per week and 10 hours per day, while the total spread including rest intervals cannot exceed 12 hours in a day.

Overtime wages must be paid at twice the normal rate, and employees must be provided a minimum rest interval of 30 minutes after every 6 hours of continuous work.

Alignment with New Labour Codes

Haryana continues to align its Shops and Establishments Act with the broader Labour Codes framework. Earlier amendments introduced a dual compliance system based on workforce size.

Establishments employing 20 or more workers are required to follow comprehensive registration provisions, while smaller establishments need only submit online intimation within a prescribed timeframe.

Key Legislative Changes

The amendment enhances operational flexibility while strengthening compliance. Working hours have been extended, overtime limits increased, and continuous work duration revised in line with evolving business needs.

Mandatory requirements now include issuance of appointment letters and identity cards to employees, along with updated compliance references aligned with modern legal frameworks.

Revised Compliance and Penalty Framework

The revised framework introduces a graded penalty structure with defined minimum and maximum fines. Monetary penalties have replaced criminal provisions for minor violations, ensuring a more practical enforcement mechanism.

Establishments are required to maintain accurate registration records, update employment details, and comply with revised documentation norms to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations.

Action Points for Employers

Businesses operating in Haryana should review their compliance status, update registration or intimation processes, revise HR policies in line with new working hour limits, and ensure documentation requirements are fulfilled.

Aligning with these changes will help organisations remain compliant while benefiting from simplified procedures and increased operational flexibility.

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