Mumbai: In a major relief for businesses, the Maharashtra government has officially permitted all shops and establishments in the state, except those selling alcohol, to operate round the clock.

A circular to this effect was issued by the Industries, Energy, Labour and Mining Department, clarifying the implementation of the decision under the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act, 2017. The government stated that all shops, offices, and commercial establishments can now remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with the sole exception being liquor-serving outlets such as permit rooms, beer bars, and wine shops.

The move comes after several complaints from business owners that police and local authorities were preventing them from operating 24/7, despite no such restrictions in the Act. To ensure compliance, the state has formally instructed local administrations and police departments not to obstruct establishments from functioning at all hours.

However, the government has made it mandatory for all employees working in such businesses to be given a weekly break of at least 24 consecutive hours.

Earlier, theaters and cinemas were also listed under restricted business hours, but they have now been exempted.

The decision is expected to boost economic activity and provide greater flexibility for businesses across Maharashtra, especially in urban areas like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, where demand for round-the-clock services remains high.