Even as a Gurugram employee has alleged that he was <a href="https://www.benefitnews.in/opinion/fired-for-leaving-on-time-welcome-to-startup-hell/7109" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fired for leaving work on time</a>, the Karnataka High Court has ruled that a transport constable, who was suspended for taking a short nap on duty, must be reinstated, emphasizing that the right to rest and sleep is protected under the Constitution.
Chandrashekhar, a constable with the Karnataka State Transport Corporation (KSRTC), was suspended after a video of him taking a power nap went viral on social media. In response, he filed a petition challenging his suspension. Justice M Nagprasanna, who presided over the case, stated that individuals have a constitutional right to rest and that the petitioner could not be held guilty for sleeping while on duty under the given circumstances.
According to Chandrashekhar, he had been working 16-hour shifts for two consecutive months without a break. On April 23, 2024, a report was filed alleging that he was found sleeping on duty. Subsequently, on July 1, 2024, he was suspended by the KSRTC management. The High Court found that the management erred in forcing constables to work two shifts daily without rest for an extended period.
Justice Nagprasanna highlighted Article 24 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which affirms that everyone has the right to rest, leisure, and reasonable limitations on working hours. The judge reiterated that working hours should not exceed 48 hours a week or eight hours a day, except in exceptional circumstances.
As a result of the ruling, the High Court quashed the KSRTC&rsquo;s suspension order and directed that Chandrashekhar be reinstated with full benefits, including his salary. The judgment underlines the importance of rest and fair working conditions, setting a precedent for employee rights in cases of excessive workloads.

Court reinstates constable fired for sleeping on duty, upholding the right to rest at work

Karnataka HC: Napping at Work Not a Crime

Court reinstates constable fired for sleeping on duty, upholding the right to rest at work

February 26, 2025 | 17:08 IST