No Office Work After 6 PM: A Progressive Idea That Needs Practical Balance

Supporters of the proposal argue that extended workdays have become the norm, especially in the private sector, with employees often expected to stay connected well beyond office hours. This culture, they say, leads to burnout, declining productivity and long-term health issues. Studies have repeatedly shown that overworked employees are not more efficient, but more exhausted and disengaged. From this perspective, a clear cut-off time like 6 pm offers predictability and personal space, essential for family life and recovery.

Several countries have already moved in this direction. France’s “right to disconnect” law, for instance, limits after-hours work communication, setting a global example. In India too, some companies have voluntarily adopted policies discouraging late emails and meetings, reporting improved morale and retention.

However, critics point out that a blanket “no work after 6 pm” rule may not be practical across sectors. Industries such as healthcare, media, manufacturing, emergency services and global IT operations depend on flexible or round-the-clock schedules. Even within corporate offices, deadlines, international clients and seasonal workloads often demand extended hours.

The real issue, therefore, is not occasional late work, but the expectation that it should be routine and unpaid. A more workable solution lies in clear policies, fair compensation for overtime, flexible scheduling and outcome-based performance evaluation rather than clock-based monitoring.

Ending the culture of endless workdays is a worthy goal. But instead of rigid timelines, India needs a balanced framework that protects employee well-being while recognising the realities of a diverse and globally connected economy.