Kerala Vows Worker-First Approach as Centre Notifies Labour Codes

Overview

• Labour Minister V. Sivankutty said Kerala will not take an anti-worker stand in implementing the new central codes.
• The state is reviewing the reforms to preserve trade union rights, social security and long-standing labour protections.
• Rules in Kerala will be drafted only after consultations with major trade unions, employer associations and industry representatives.
• Safeguards will be built into state rules to prioritise fair wages, workplace safety, stronger social security and dignified conditions.
• The Union government notified all four labour codes a day earlier, introducing measures such as social security for gig workers, mandatory appointment letters, statutory minimum wages, ESIC expansion and a single registration, licence and return system.