What does the Industrial Relations Code say on trade unions? What are the provisions on lay-off and closure?
The story so far: Three Codes on labour law were passed by Parliament this week, amid strident criticism and vociferous protests by many trade unions. Hailed by industry as a much-needed reform and rationalisation of labour laws, the Codes on industrial relations, social security, occupational safety, health and working conditions amalgamate and replace several diverse laws on the subject. Last year, a separate Code on Wages was enacted. The Codes enacted now are modified versions of the Industrial Relations Code Bill introduced in 2019. Among these, the Industrial Relations Code is touted as one that would energise industry and spur economic activity, as it aims to free employees from the constraints of earlier labour laws.
