Abstract

The Right to Disconnect has emerged as a critical labor right in response to the growing issue of workplace stress and burnout caused by excessive digital connectivity. With India ranking among the most overworked nations globally, the need for legal frameworks to ensure work-life balance has gained traction. This paper explores the significance of the Right to Disconnect, its advantages, and the challenges associated with its implementation in India. It examines global legal precedents, including policies in France, Portugal, Spain, and Canada, highlighting their impact on employee well-being and productivity. Additionally, the paper discusses India’s existing labor laws, constitutional provisions, and judicial pronouncements that indirectly support this right. While India lacks specific legislation on the Right to Disconnect, past legislative efforts and international examples indicate a growing awareness of the issue. The study concludes that adopting a structured policy in India could enhance employee welfare, reduce workplace exploitation, and foster a healthier work culture, though practical challenges must be addressed for effective implementation.

Keywords

Right to Disconnect, Work-Life Balance, Labor Rights, Digital Burnout, Workplace Stress, Employee Well-being, Labor Law, Workplace Productivity, Mental Health, Indian Labor Policy.