Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Dec 6: A private member’s bill aimed at giving employees the legal right to ignore work-related communication beyond office hours was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Friday, bringing attention to the growing debate around work-life balance in India. NCP MP Supriya Sule moved the “Right to Disconnect Bill, 2025”, proposing that employees should not be compelled to respond to official calls or emails after working hours or during holidays. The bill also seeks the formation of an employees’ welfare authority to ensure enforcement of such rights.
Private member’s bills allow Members of Parliament to raise important legislative proposals, although they rarely become law and are often withdrawn after a government response. The bill arrived during a busy winter session that began on December 1 and includes 15 sittings scheduled till December 19, under the backdrop of ongoing controversy over Special Intensive Revision of voter rolls in multiple states.
Several other private member’s bills were introduced on the same day. Congress MP Kadiyam Kavya moved the Menstrual Benefits Bill, 2024, proposing a legal framework for facilities and support for women employees during menstruation. LJP MP Shambhavi Choudhary introduced a bill seeking paid menstrual leave for working women and female students, along with guaranteed access to hygiene facilities and health benefits.
Congress MP Manickam Tagore introduced a proposal to exempt Tamil Nadu from NEET for undergraduate medical admissions, weeks after the state government challenged the President’s refusal to clear its anti-NEET legislation in the Supreme Court. Independent MP Vishaldada Prakashbapu Patil introduced the Journalist (Prevention of Violence and Protection) Bill, 2024, aimed at preventing attacks on media personnel and safeguarding their property.
BJP MP Ganesh Singh moved the Supreme Court – Use of Hindi in Proceedings and Other Provisions Bill, 2024, advocating expanded use of Hindi in the functioning of the apex court.