AI-Driven Workplace Surveillance and Employee Privacy: A Labour Law Perspective

Abstract Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the modern workplace. Employers are increasingly using AI-enabled technologies to monitor attendance, productivity, communication, location, performance, behaviour and emotional responses of employees. While such technologies can offer advantages in terms of organisational efficiency, prevention of misconduct and management of large workforces, they also raise serious concerns over employee privacy, autonomy, dignity and labour rights. Traditional workplace monitoring was generally limited to physical observation, attendance registers and conventional electronic monitoring. AI has enabled wider collection of employee data, which is subsequently evaluated using automated systems. This research explores the relationship between AI-driven workplace surveillance and employee privacy rights, with reference to the Indian legal framework. It examines the challenges created by continuous monitoring, algorithmic decision-making, biometric surveillance, productivity tracking and employee profiling. The study argues that workplace surveillance should not be viewed solely as a question of managerial authority but should be addressed as a labour-rights and fundamental-rights issue. A balanced regulatory approach is therefore crucial to ensure that legitimate business interests do not override employee privacy and dignity. The research concludes with recommendations for transparency, proportionality, informed notice, data minimisation, human oversight and effective grievance mechanisms.