Kerala Minister Demands Withdrawal of Controversial Labour Codes

Kerala Minister V Sivankutty has called for the retraction of the Centre's four new labour codes, arguing that they undermine workers' rights. In a letter to Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Sivankutty emphasized the need for democratic dialogue with state governments and trade unions for protecting labour rights.

Kerala Minister V Sivankutty has formally urged the Union Government to retract the recently implemented labour codes. In a letter to Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Sivankutty criticized the codes for undermining workers' rights and welfare, and for compromising the fundamental principle of social justice.

Sivankutty highlighted the necessity for reform in the labour sector but emphasized that the new regulations dilute job security and the right to collective bargaining, according to trade union representatives. He also pointed out that employment falls under the concurrent list of the Constitution, suggesting that the Centre should have engaged in discussions with state governments and trade unions.

The minister insists that without such consultations, labour peace could be disrupted. He advocates for transparent conversations with all stakeholders to ensure workers' rights remain safeguarded when implementing labour reforms. This letter follows a resolution by central trade unions urging the withdrawal of the new codes.

(With inputs from agencies.)