14 National Unions Support Worker-Friendly Labour Codes
The Confederation of Central Trade Unions (CONCENT), a joint platform of 14 national labour organisations, has extended strong support to the Union Government’s newly notified Labour Codes, calling them a ‘historic and progressive transformation’ beneficial to nearly 40 crore unorganised workers. This move is seen as a significant development in the country’s labour landscape, as it marks a rare instance of trade unions coming together to back government legislation.
The Labour Codes, which were notified by the Union Government recently, aim to simplify and consolidate the existing labour laws, making it easier for employers to comply with the regulations. The new codes also introduce several worker-friendly provisions, such as increased social security benefits, improved working conditions, and enhanced protection against unfair labour practices.
According to the CONCENT, the Labour Codes are a “historic and progressive transformation” that will benefit nearly 40 crore unorganised workers in the country. The confederation has welcomed the codes, stating that they will help to promote social justice, equality, and fairness in the workplace. The CONCENT has also appreciated the government’s efforts to engage with trade unions and other stakeholders during the drafting of the codes, which has resulted in a more inclusive and worker-friendly legislation.
One of the key features of the Labour Codes is the introduction of a uniform definition of “worker” across all sectors, which will help to eliminate confusion and ensure that all workers are entitled to the same benefits and protections. The codes also provide for increased penalties for employers who violate labour laws, which is expected to deter non-compliance and promote a culture of adherence to labour regulations.
Another significant provision in the Labour Codes is the establishment of a national floor for minimum wages, which will ensure that workers across the country are paid a minimum wage that is fair and reasonable. This move is expected to benefit millions of workers who are currently paid less than the minimum wage, and will help to reduce income inequality and poverty.
The Labour Codes also introduce new provisions for social security benefits, including pension, health insurance, and maternity benefits. These benefits will be extended to all workers, including those in the unorganised sector, who have hitherto been excluded from such benefits. The codes also provide for the establishment of a national database of workers, which will help to track workers’ employment history and ensure that they receive their due benefits.
The support of the CONCENT to the Labour Codes is significant, as it marks a rare instance of trade unions coming together to back government legislation. The CONCENT is a joint platform of 14 national labour organisations, including the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), and the Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), among others. The confederation has a combined membership of over 10 crore workers, making it one of the largest trade union platforms in the country.
The CONCENT’s support to the Labour Codes is also seen as a testament to the government’s efforts to engage with trade unions and other stakeholders during the drafting of the legislation. The government had set up a committee to review the labour laws and make recommendations for simplification and consolidation. The committee had consulted with trade unions, employers, and other stakeholders, which resulted in a more inclusive and worker-friendly legislation.
In conclusion, the support of the CONCENT to the Labour Codes is a significant development in the country’s labour landscape. The codes are expected to benefit nearly 40 crore unorganised workers, and will help to promote social justice, equality, and fairness in the workplace. The introduction of a uniform definition of “worker”, increased penalties for non-compliance, and new provisions for social security benefits are some of the key features of the codes that will benefit workers.
As the country moves forward with the implementation of the Labour Codes, it is essential to ensure that the laws are enforced effectively and that workers are able to exercise their rights without fear of reprisal. The government, trade unions, and employers must work together to promote a culture of compliance and adherence to labour regulations, which will help to create a more just and equitable workplace for all.
News Source: https://investmentguruindia.com/newsdetail/-worker-centric-progressive-14-national-unions-back-new-labour-codes335371
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