Ten trade unions in India have slammed the government’s implementation of new labor codes, labeling them “deceptive fraud committed against the working people of the nation.”
The coalition of unions, called the Joint Platform of Central Trade Unions, released a statement late on Friday calling for nationwide protests on November 26.
What are the new labor codes?
The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi implemented four labor codes that were approved by parliament five years ago.
The codes that have become effective are the code on wages, the industrial relations code, the social security code and the occupational safety, health and working conditions code.
The Government is seeking to simplify work regulations with some dating to British colonial rule, while also looking to ease conditions for investment.
It also says the reforms will improve worker protections.
“By modernizing labour regulations, enhancing workers’ welfare and aligning the labour ecosystem with the evolving world of work, this landmark move lays the foundation for a future-ready workforce and stronger, resilient industries driving labour reforms,” the Labour Ministry said in a statement.
Businesses have long called for India to modify its labor regulations, particularly in the manufacturing sector, which is a major pillar of the South Asian country’s economy.
Meanwhile, the Association of Indian Entrepreneurs was cited by Reuters news agency as saying that the new rules would significantly increase costs for small and medium-sized enterprises. The group called for transitional support from New Delhi.
Why are unions calling for more action?
Unions have strongly opposed the changes and have held multiple nationwide protests over the past five years.
While the new rules offer social security and minimum-wage benefits, companies will also be able to hire and dismiss workers more easily.
“The Joint Platform of Central Trade Unions, express strong condemnation against the blatantly unilateral implementation of anti-worker, pro-employer labour codes from today,” the unions joint statement said.
The unions called the “working people of India across the sectors to rise in rage” for protest action on November 26.
Edited by: Saim Dušan Inayatullah
