Right to Sit: A Basic Workplace Right

Employees working in shops, showrooms, malls, textile outlets, and some factories across India are often required to stand for long hours, even when there is no work. In many workplaces, sitting down or even leaning against a wall is discouraged. Labour rights advocates argue that forcing employees to remain standing under constant surveillance is inhumane and negatively affects their health and dignity. Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees not only the right to life but also the right to live with dignity and in a healthy environment.

Medical experts warn that prolonged standing can lead to leg, ankle, knee, back, and spine problems, along with varicose veins, poor blood circulation, fatigue, and blood pressure fluctuations. Women often face additional discomfort during menstruation, while limited access to restroom facilities can increase health risks. After an eight year movement by sales workers, Kerala amended its law in 2018 to make seating facilities mandatory for employees, and Tamil Nadu later adopted similar measures. Experts and labour rights groups are now calling for the “Right to Sit” to be implemented nationwide, emphasizing that a chair represents not just comfort, but dignity and worker welfare.