Mumbai: Maharashtra Samajwadi Party president Abu Asim Azmi has written to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde urging the state government to allow Muslim employees special time-off during the holy month of Ramzan.
Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Azmi said he had formally requested the government to permit early leave or adjusted working hours for employees observing the fast. He pointed out that similar concessions have already been implemented by the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
“We have written to the Chief Minister requesting time-off for employees during Ramzan. Other states have already taken this step, but we have not yet received any response from the Maharashtra government,” Azmi said.
Ramzan, observed by Muslims worldwide, involves fasting from dawn to sunset along with additional prayers and religious practices. Azmi argued that flexible working hours would help employees manage their religious duties without affecting productivity.
Debate Over Religious Accommodation
The proposal has triggered political discussion in the state. Supporters say providing temporary flexibility during Ramzan reflects sensitivity toward religious diversity and mirrors steps taken in other states. Critics, however, argue that any such move should follow a uniform framework applicable to all communities to avoid allegations of preferential treatment.
Currently, Id-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramzan, is already listed as a public holiday in Maharashtra. However, Azmi’s request focuses on daily work-hour adjustments during the fasting month rather than a single-day holiday.
Awaiting Government Response
Officials have not yet issued a formal statement on the letter. Sources indicate that the matter may require consultation between the general administration and labour departments before any decision is taken.
