The Shops and Establishments Act is a state-specific legislation enacted to regulate the working conditions and employment terms in shops, commercial establishments, and other premises where goods and services are sold. The legislation aims to ensure the welfare, safety, and rights of workers and regulate various aspects such as working hours, holidays, wages, and employment conditions. Here's all you need to know about the Shops and Establishments License:

1. **Objective**: The primary objective of the Shops and Establishments License is to regulate the operation of shops, commercial establishments, and other premises to safeguard the interests of employees and ensure compliance with labor laws. It covers aspects such as working hours, rest intervals, holidays, wages, employment conditions, and workplace safety.

2. **Applicability**: The Shops and Establishments Act is applicable to various types of establishments, including shops, retail stores, commercial establishments, offices, banks, hotels, restaurants, eateries, amusement parks, theaters, and other premises where goods or services are sold or offered for sale. However, the applicability may vary from state to state.

3. **Registration Process**:
   - Eligibility: Any person or entity intending to establish and operate a shop or commercial establishment needs to obtain the Shops and Establishments License from the respective state government or local municipal authority.
   - Application: The applicant needs to submit the prescribed application form along with the necessary documents, such as identity proof, address proof, proof of ownership or occupancy of the premises, and other supporting documents, to the concerned authority.
   - Inspection: The authority may conduct an inspection of the premises to verify compliance with the applicable regulations and standards.
   - Issuance: Upon satisfactory verification and fulfillment of the requirements, the Shops and Establishments License is issued to the applicant.

4. **Key Provisions**:
   - Working Hours: The Act specifies the maximum permissible working hours, rest intervals, and weekly offs for employees working in shops and establishments.
   - Holidays: It mandates the provision of weekly holidays, festival holidays, and annual leave with wages for employees.
   - Wages: The Act prescribes the minimum wages, overtime rates, and payment of wages on time to employees.
   - Employment Conditions: It regulates various aspects of employment, including recruitment, termination, dismissal, gratuity, maternity benefits, and other employment benefits.
   - Workplace Safety: The Act mandates compliance with workplace safety standards and the provision of facilities such as first aid, fire safety, sanitation, and hygiene.

5. **Renewal and Compliance**:
   - Renewal: The Shops and Establishments License is typically valid for a specific period, such as one to five years, and needs to be renewed periodically by submitting the renewal application and paying the prescribed fee.
   - Compliance: License holders must comply with the provisions of the Shops and Establishments Act, including maintaining accurate records, displaying notices, adhering to safety standards, and providing necessary facilities to employees.

6. **Penalties for Non-compliance**:
   - Non-compliance with the provisions of the Shops and Establishments Act, such as failure to obtain the license, violation of working hours, non-payment of wages, or unsafe working conditions, can attract penalties, fines, and legal action by the authorities.
   - Employers found guilty of non-compliance may face prosecution, closure of the establishment, cancellation of the license, and other punitive measures under the relevant state laws.

The Shops and Establishments License is essential for businesses to operate legally and ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations. By obtaining the license and adhering to the prescribed provisions, employers contribute to the welfare and protection of their employees and maintain a conducive and safe working environment.

Shops and Establishments License Fees