Kerala is once again exploring the possibility of introducing a five-day work week in all government offices, but the move has sparked fresh debate among employee unions. The state government has called service organisations for an online consultation on December 5 and asked them to submit suggestions by email — yet no draft proposal has been shared, raising eyebrows among Opposition-aligned unions.
They argue that meaningful feedback is impossible without clarity on planned changes to working hours, holidays, and leave benefits. While some groups, including the Secretariat Employees Association, support the idea in principle, they insist that employee rights — especially casual leave — must not be compromised. With past proposals repeatedly stalled due to resistance over leave cuts, the upcoming meeting is expected to play a crucial role in determining whether Kerala will finally shift to a modern five-day work schedule.
