Theme:

Wipro fired more than 300 employees because of moonlighting.
On August 20, 2022, Wipro’s chairman Rishad Premji tweeted against moonlighting and labelled it “cheating- clear and simple.”

Moonlighting refers to the act of working at an extra job or performing work for pay in addition to one’s primary job without informing the principal employer. 

It is also known as having a side hustle or a part-time job in addition to one’s full-time job.

For example,

• A teacher who works as a Content writer on the weekends could be moonlighting.
•  A software engineer who freelances on the side could also be considered to be moonlighting. 
• In both cases, the individuals have a primary job and are also working additional jobs or performing extra work for pay on the side.

Why do employees prefer/do Moonlighting:

Financial reasons: Many people work more hours to pay off debts, save for a specific purpose, or simply increase their overall income.

Professional development: Working a second job can give people the chance to expand their knowledge or expertise in a particular industry, which is good for their career development.

Work-life balance: Since moonlighting gives one more control over their work schedule and work-life balance, some people may find it more attractive.

Personal fulfilment: Taking on the extra job can be personally rewarding for certain people who like the challenge and thrill of working two jobs.

Job dissatisfaction: Some people might moonlight to pursue alternative chances since they are dissatisfied with their regular employment.

Companies that allow Moonlighting:- Flipkart, Swiggy, and Zomato.

 

 

Disadvantages of Moonlighting:

Time constraints: Working at a second job might take up a lot of time and may leave less time for other interests, such as time with friends, family, and hobbies.

Physical and mental fatigue: Working two jobs can be physically and mentally exhausting, which can result in burnout and reduced productivity.

Risk of Job loss: Some employers restrict employees from taking on a second job, and those that do may require permission. An employee runs the danger of losing their main job if they moonlight without permission.

Legal issues: Depending on the second job’s nature, a worker could need to obtain additional licenses or permissions or be required to pay taxes on the extra income.

Risk of injury: If the second job involves physical labour or other potentially hazardous activities, there is an increased risk of injury. This could lead to lost income and additional medical expenses.

Laws on Moonlighting:- legal or illegal

Moonlighting, or working a second job in addition to one’s regular employment, is generally legal in India.

However, there may be some restrictions on moonlighting depending on the terms of an individual’s employment contract and the nature of the work being done.

For example, an employee may be prohibited from working a second job if it conflicts with their primary job duties or if it is in competition with their employer’s business. It is generally a good idea for an employee to disclose their moonlighting activities to their employer and to ensure that they are not violating any terms of their employment agreement or engaging in any illegal activities.

Infosys does a U-turn: Allows workers to take on freelance work with managers’ prior approval.

 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, moonlighting is generally legal in India, but employees need to be aware of any restrictions on moonlighting that may be outlined in their employment contract and to ensure that they are not violating any laws or company policies.

Employees should also consider the potential impact that moonlighting can have on their primary job, including the possibility of burnout and reduced productivity. 

While moonlighting can be a good way to earn additional income and gain new skills and experience, it is important for employees to carefully consider the potential risks and rewards before taking on a second job.