Update on implementation of 24×7 in the State of Maharashtra & Karnataka

RAI had a fruitful meeting with Smt. Vinita Ved Singal (IAS), Principal Secretary (Labour & Administration), Government of Maharashtra on 7 June 2022.

RAI team discussed with Satheesha SR, Managing Director, Visvesvaraya Trade Promotion Centre (VTPC), Govt of Karnataka and had a very fruitful meeting with Mr. Praveen Ramdurg - Joint Director, VTPC.

In both the States, RAI delegation had a detailed deliberation on the problems with the jurisdictional local police in certain areas. Hon. Principal Secretary and Managing Director confirmed that she will talk to home ministry and set up an inter ministries meeting to resolve this issue. We shall keep you posted on any developments in this regard.

RAI delegation had another fruitful meeting on 14 June 2022 with Karnataka Government to discuss implementation challenges of the 24X7 notification issued by the State Government.

The meeting was chaired by Dr E V Ramana Reddy, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary - Commerce & Industries, Department of Electronics, IT & BT, Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka. It was also attended by Commissioner of police, Principal Secretary of Labour and Managing Director of VTPC.

Delegation highlighted that while the 24X7 notification is effective, the local police authorities do not recognize the notification and ask the business to shut operations early.

The Commissioner of Police confirmed that as per the 2016 order, which stated that commercial establishments can stay open until 1:00 am, will be now followed in the city, however no decision has been taken about the 24x7 business.

It was also confirmed to the delegation that there will be no police interference until 1:00 am for the establishments to stay open. Hon’ble Secretary also assured delegation that he will discuss the implementation 24x7 notification with Home department.

We shall keep you posted once we hear back from the Government.

Update on implementation of 24×7 in the State of Tamil Nadu

RAI has been pursuing all the State Governments to permit 24x7. The 24X7 move by Tamil Nadu Government is definitely welcome because this is an indication that the Government has realized that retail is the sector that contributes to the economy, and is willing to give additional hours to operate business.

Now there is a need to change customer behaviour. Retailers need to analyze customer feedback to see if people even want to come at night for shopping.