Maharashtra Permits 24/7 Operation of Shops; Bars and Liquor Outlets Excluded

The Maharashtra government has announced that shops and establishments across the state may now operate 24 hours a day, with the exception of businesses selling alcohol, India Today reported.

The State Industries, Energy, Labour and Mining Department issued a circular regarding the effective implementation of the decision.

The government clarified that most shops and businesses in the state can now remain open around the clock, with the only exception being establishments that serve or sell alcohol, such as permit rooms, beer bars, and wine shops.

The move follows complaints that local authorities and police officials had been preventing businesses from keeping round-the-clock operations.

Under the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act, 2017, businesses operating continuously must ensure each employee receives a mandatory weekly rest period of 24 consecutive hours.

The government has also notified local administrations and police departments about the clarification to ensure proper enforcement of the rule.

Earlier, theatres and cinemas were also included in the list of businesses with regulated hours, but they have now been removed.

The move is expected to increase business activity while offering greater operational flexibility to establishments across the state.

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