Current Affairs | Moonlighting

Moonlighting

15-09-2022

Science & Technology Prelims Plus

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Why is in news? After Wipro, Infosys warns employees of consequences if found to be moonlighting

The ever-booming Indian IT industry seems to be grappling with a new problem—moonlighting.
Weeks after Wipro voiced concerns over employees “two-timing” their job, Infosys, too, came out with a warning to its workers, saying that such practice would lead to termination.
The practice of working for one organisation while also taking up extra responsibilities and jobs, typically without the employer's knowledge, is referred to as moonlighting.
It is called so the side employment is typically performed at night or on the weekends.
Is moonlighting ethical? - The IT sector is divided when it comes to moonlighting. Some call it unethical while others believe it is the need of the hour.
Moonlighting could be considered cheating if an employee’s contract calls for non-compete and single employment, which is the situation with the majority of conventional employment contracts.
However, it is not cheating if the employment contracts do not have such a clause or provide relaxations.
Under the Factories Act, dual employment is prohibited. However, in some states, IT companies are exempt from that rule.
Before looking for side jobs or starting a business, it is crucial for employees to carefully check their employment contract with their principal job to ensure compliance with any moonlighting policies.