The Gurugram district administration has issued show-cause notices to two private corporate offices in Sector 42 for allegedly breaching the mandatory 50 per cent work-from-home directive introduced as part of measures to curb air pollution across Delhi-NCR.
The action followed surprise inspections conducted on Thursday by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Badshahpur. Officials found that both establishments had allowed more than half of their employees to work from office, exceeding the attendance limit prescribed by the administration. This is among the first instances of action against private corporate offices for violating the restrictions.
Over 60 per cent staff found working from office
According to the notices, inspectors found around 87 employees present at one office, which had a declared workforce of 117. At the second establishment, approximately 160 employees were found on the premises against a total staff strength of 262.
The physical attendance figures worked out to nearly 74 per cent and 61 per cent, respectively, both above the permitted 50 per cent threshold.
The managements have been asked to submit written explanations within 24 hours. They must also provide supporting records, including their total employee strength, biometric and attendance details for the inspection day, duty rosters and information about employees permitted to work remotely.
The notices warn that an unsatisfactory response could lead to proceedings under Section 14 of the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021.
Inspections follow complaints from employees and residents
Officials said compliance was being monitored across Gurugram, with inspections taking place in all subdivisions. Complaints raised by employees and residents on social media about offices allegedly disregarding the attendance restrictions have also prompted checks.
The deputy commissioner issued the 50 per cent attendance directive on November 3, following directions from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). Under the order, government and private offices must ensure that no more than half their workforce is physically present at any given time, with the remaining employees working remotely.
The restrictions remain in force from November 5 to November 20.
The attendance cap is among the emergency pollution-control measures introduced across Delhi-NCR as air quality worsens ahead of the peak winter pollution period. The administration is monitoring workplaces to ensure compliance with the directions.