Ritu works for an IT firm and is happy that the firm gives her freedom of working hours. She can even work late on Saturday night and come late on Monday, every time her boss gives her a deadline. Also, most meetings happen over a weekend dinner at the office. What is Ritu being subjected to?

The correct option is: 'flexi-time' but in reality expansion of working hours by the management

Step-by-step Explanation:

1. Understanding the Concept of 'Flexi-time':
Flexi-time or flexible working hours is a scheduling arrangement designed to give employees control over when they start and finish their workday. Ideally, this autonomy helps workers balance their personal lives with professional commitments, reducing stress and improving job satisfaction.

2. Analyzing Ritu's Work Dynamics:
While Ritu appreciates the freedom to adjust her schedule, the actual details of her work routine reveal a demanding pattern:
- She has to work late on Saturday nights to meet deadlines imposed by her boss.
- She compensates by arriving late on Mondays, shifting her standard working hours to unusual times.
- Crucial workplace events, such as meetings, are organized over weekend dinners at the office, which directly cuts into her personal rest and leisure time.

3. Why This is an 'Expansion of Working Hours':
Under the guise of letting her choose her own hours, the company expects Ritu to be available and working during non-traditional hours, including weekends and late nights. The management uses the flexibility framework to ensure deadlines are met at the expense of standard rest periods, thereby expanding the boundary of the workplace into her weekends. Thus, what appears to be worker autonomy is, in reality, a strategy by the management to stretch working hours.

4. Why Other Options Do Not Apply:
- Knowledge economy where her work is in the IT sector: While Ritu works in IT, this option merely describes her industry rather than explaining the specific scheduling problem she is facing.
- Globalisation: There is no mention of international clients, timezone differences (such as Japan), or cross-border coordination in the passage.
- Gender discrimination: The text does not show any unfair treatment or bias directed at Ritu based on her gender; rather, it highlights organizational expectations that affect working hours.