Right to Disconnect Bill 2026 | 10 Feb 2026

Source: TH 

To address worsening work–life balance and rising mental health concerns, a Right to Disconnect Bill was introduced in Parliament as a Private Member’s Bill, following earlier attempts in 2019 and 2025. 

• Objective: The Bill seeks to legally recognize an employee's right to disengage from work-related communication (emails, calls, messages) outside of official working hours without fear of reprisal. 
  • As per the International Labour Organization (ILO), Indians worked the highest average hours globally (56.2 hours per week in 2024), while constant after-hours communication creates “telepressure” (the psychological urge to immediately respond to work messages), leading to stress, sleep deprivation, and poor work–life balance. 
• Provisions: Right to Disconnect Bill, 2026 proposes that workers should not face adverse consequences such as disciplinary action, poor performance appraisals, or denial of career opportunities for refusing to respond after work hours. 
  • Companies will be statutorily required to draft a comprehensive policy in consultation with trade unions or employee representatives. This policy must define: 
    • Working hours and permissible after-hours communication. 
    • Emergency protocols and grievance redressal mechanisms. 
    • Measures for digital wellness. 
• Global Precedents: The Bill draws inspiration from countries like France, Belgium, Portugal, and Australia, all of which have adopted legislation to protect personal time.