Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday termed the new labour codes the 'greatest setback' for workers' rights since India's Independence. In a strongly worded statement, Kharge said that for crores of workers across the country, these codes promise a future marked by hire-and-fire policies, increased contract employment, and limited space for unionisation.
Congress Slams New Labour Codes
The Congress leader's remarks come amid the rollout of four labour codes that consolidate 29 central labour laws. The government has defended the codes, arguing that they simplify compliance and boost ease of doing business. However, opposition parties and trade unions have raised concerns over provisions that allow for longer working hours, easier hiring and retrenchment, and restrictions on strikes.
Kharge's statement highlighted the potential impact on job security and collective bargaining. 'These codes strip workers of their hard-won rights and protections, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation,' he said. The Congress has called for a nationwide protest against the implementation of the codes.
Reactions and Analysis
- Trade unions have announced plans for a general strike in protest against the labour codes.
- Economic experts are divided, with some praising the flexibility for businesses and others warning of increased informalisation of the workforce.
- The government maintains that the codes will lead to more jobs and better social security coverage.
As the debate continues, workers and activists are gearing up for a protracted fight over the future of labour rights in India.
