Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 2: The Maharashtra government on Wednesday cleared the way for all shops and commercial establishments, except those serving or selling alcohol, to operate round-the-clock.
A circular issued by the Industries, Energy, Labour and Mining Department emphasized proper implementation of the decision, following complaints that local authorities and police were preventing businesses from staying open 24/7 despite provisions in law.

Under the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act, 2017, businesses choosing to function round-the-clock must ensure that every employee receives a mandatory weekly break of 24 consecutive hours.

What’s Allowed:

All shops, commercial establishments, theatres, and cinemas can now operate 24 hours a day.

What’s Not Allowed:

Establishments serving or selling alcohol—including permit rooms, beer bars, wine shops, and hookah parlors—remain prohibited from operating round-the-clock.

Local authorities and police have been instructed to strictly enforce these restrictions, ensuring compliance while supporting businesses that opt for 24/7 operations.

This move is expected to benefit retail, entertainment, and service sectors across Maharashtra, giving businesses the flexibility to cater to changing consumer demands.