The governments of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have announced special relaxations in working hours for Muslim employees in view of the holy month of Ramadan. This decision aims to facilitate employees, teachers, and contract staff in performing their fasts and prayers (Iftar and Taraweeh) comfortably during the month-long observance.
In Telangana, the government has permitted Muslim employees, including those working on a contract or outsourcing basis, to leave their offices by 4:00 PM starting from February 19 to March 20. Furthermore, the timings for Urdu medium schools have been revised to operate from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM. However, the government clarified that these relaxations will not apply to personnel engaged in emergency or essential services.
Similarly, the Andhra Pradesh government has granted permission for Muslim employees to leave their duties one hour early from February 18 to March 19. This proactive move by both state governments has been welcomed by the community, as it provides them with the necessary time to reach home and prepare for their evening religious rituals and breaking of the fast.
