Debate Intensifies Over New Labour Codes: A Step Forward or Mere Replication?

The Congress party criticized the Modi government for the new Labour Codes, urging for a national minimum wage, universal health coverage, and employment guarantees. The codes, incorporating worker-friendly measures, face scrutiny for effectiveness and discretionary implementation. Prior government examples in Karnataka and Rajasthan are cited for comprehensive reforms.

The Congress party has raised significant concerns over the newly notified Labour Codes under the Modi government, demanding crucial provisions like a minimum wage of Rs 400 daily, universal health coverage worth Rs 25 lakh, and an urban employment guarantee act to ensure fairness for workers.

Following the notification of the four Labour Codes, originally pending since 2020, the Congress argues that despite claims of revolutionary reform, the codes merely repackaged 29 existing labour laws without addressing core workers' rights and protections effectively.

The Codes promise changes, including a mandatory minimum wage, universal social security, and broader employment terms for gig and platform workers. However, criticism persists regarding the potential for arbitrary enforcement and lack of clarity in some provisions, necessitating a closer look at past state-level labour reforms.

(With inputs from agencies.)