Right to Disconnect Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha: No Calls or Emails After Working Hours

A private member's legislation seeking to give employees the right to ignore work calls and emails once office hours end was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Friday. Though such bills rarely become law, they often highlight issues lawmakers feel need urgent attention.

Key Proposal on Employee Rights

NCP MP Supriya Sule placed the "Right to Disconnect Bill, 2025" before the House. The proposal calls for the creation of an Employees' Welfare Authority and grants workers the right to disengage from work communication after official duty hours as well as during holidays.

According to the bill, every employee should be allowed to refuse responding to calls or emails beyond working hours. It also seeks to address concerns arising from such communication and related workplace issues.

Separate Bills Targeting Menstrual Support

Congress MP Kadiyam Kavya introduced the Menstrual Benefits Bill, 2024. This proposal aims to ensure better workplace facilities and structured support for women during menstruation by establishing a legal framework that guarantees specific benefits for female employees.

LJP MP Shambhavi Choudhary presented another bill focused on securing paid menstrual leave for working women and female students. The draft also stresses access to menstrual hygiene facilities and health support.

Exemption Demand from NEET in Tamil Nadu

Congress MP Manickam Tagore put forward a bill seeking exemption for Tamil Nadu from the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for undergraduate medical admissions. The proposal follows renewed friction over the matter, with the Tamil Nadu government recently moving the Supreme Court after the President declined assent to a state law seeking exemption from NEET.

Call to End Death Penalty and Protect Journalists

DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi introduced a bill proposing the abolition of the death penalty in India. The idea has seen periodic support, and almost a decade ago the Law Commission suggested phasing it out except in terrorism cases, saying it does not act as a stronger deterrent than life imprisonment.

Independent MP Vishaldada Prakashbapu Patil introduced the Journalist (Prevention of Violence and Protection) Bill, 2024. This proposal aims to curb violence against journalists and ensure protection for them and their property, along with related safeguards.