There have been many letters suggesting a five-day working week in the private sector, just like government offices.

However, the reasons given for granting two days off every week are unacceptable.

In the present context, where everything is moving fast with people's mounting expectations in all spheres, to cut one day from the working week would be a great setback for the private sector - which is already facing tough challenges and competition.

Just see how people employed in shops, malls, cold stores and the like are working.

They work long hours, all through the year. It is very unfair for people who already enjoy reasonable comforts to demand more and more leisure and luxury.

Most people spend their weekends sleeping and passing time without any purpose.

If the weekend is extended by one more day, it will only add to the laziness of the people - besides increasing spending on entertainment and aimless strolling around with families.

The only result of a five-day week would be that people will do in two days what they can do in one.

But work in the offices, factories and establishments will be seriously affected.

The shorter the weekend is, the sweeter it is to people and their families.

More idle time spent with family will in no way be more enjoyable.

All errands can be well planned and executed with satisfaction during one day off every week.

There are also leave days that can be used when required.

Let's not waste 52 days a year for each person by enforcing a five-day working week with no benefit to people, society or their employers. Chandra Madhavan