At a press conference held today at Sankha Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack Mayor and senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader Subas Singh expressed cautious optimism along with serious concerns regarding the recent labour law amendments approved by the Odisha Cabinet.

These amendments to the Factories Act of 1948 and the Odisha Shops and Commercial Establishments Act of 1956 permit extended working hours, 24/7 operations, and night shifts for women, signifying a significant shift in the state’s labour policy. While acknowledging the government’s intention to promote economic growth and attract investment, Mayor Singh emphasised that these reforms should not come at the expense of workers’ rights and dignity, especially for vulnerable groups such as contract and casual labourers.

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