The Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 2025, have been notified with effect from 9.7.2025. Among the key provisions, the Shops Rules permit the employment of women workers during night hours, specifically between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.; however, this is subject to the employer obtaining prior written consent from the concerned women employees and implementing adequate safety measures to ensure their well-being. In addition to these safeguards, the Shops Rules impose registration requirements on all establishments employing 10 or more workers, thereby bringing a wide range of businesses under regulatory oversight. The registration process is fee-based, with the amount varying depending on the nature of the establishment—for instance, shops and commercial establishments are required to pay Rs. 1,000/-, while hotels and theatres must pay Rs. 5,000/-. For smaller establishments employing lesser than 10 workers, the Shops Rules do not require registration but mandate intimation of business commencement to the relevant authorities, ensuring minimal compliance without overburdening micro-employers. To further formalize employment relationships, the Shops Rules require employers with more than 10 workers to issue appointment letters, maintain leave books and identity cards, and digitize employee records. These documentation requirements are supplemented by an obligation to file annual returns, thereby promoting transparency and accountability in workforce management. The Shops Rules also address working conditions, prohibiting overlapping shifts and mandating a minimum of 12 hours of rest between shift changes to safeguard employee health. In terms of employment flexibility, part-time work arrangements are permitted for up to 5 hours per day, which offers scope for accommodating varied workforce needs. Facilities for employee welfare are also addressed comprehensively. Establishments employing 100 or more workers are required to provide canteen facilities, while those engaging women workers must ensure the availability of separate restrooms and urinals to maintain hygiene and dignity at the workplace. Moreover, where the number of women workers is 30 or more, the employer is additionally obligated to provide crèche facilities, ensuring childcare support for working mothers. Finally, the Shops Rules provide for the compounding of offences, with a minimum penalty set at 75% of the maximum fine prescribed under the Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2019.
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