Industrial relations law stuck over trade union norms

Unions oppose move to tightening of norms for forming one

The government’s plan for an industrial relations code will see further delay as the government and trade unions are at loggerheads over the proposed tightening of norms for forming unions.

According to the industrial relations Bill, only those engaged or employed in an industry can become office bearers of a trade union in the formal sector and only two outsiders can become office bearers of a trade union in the unorganised sector. The Bill also calls for disqualification of a person as an office-bearer if he or she is an office-bearer in 10 other trade unions.

LABOUR’S LOVE LOST

• Industrial relations Bill stuck over tightening of norms on forming trade unions
• Bill aims to restrict presence of outsiders in trade unions
• Ministry officials say this will stop politicisation of unions
• Unions say this will dilute rights of workers

Trade unions say such restrictions on the presence of outsiders in unions might be a tool for the government to restrict legitimate and elected members in unions in future. “Such restrictions in the name of reforms are to dilute the rights of workers,” said A K Padmanabhan, president, Centre of Indian Trade Unions.

Another issue that has become the bone of contention is the curb on proceedings, gherao, squat on premises or stage demonstrations at managers’ houses. The Bill proposes that instigating such forms of “coercive action” will not be considered legal.

The unions are also demanding that the number of days for giving registration to a union be brought down to 45 days than the proposed 60 days. The ministry has proposed to allow trade union registration within 60 days of an application and if the registration is not granted within the stipulated time, it shall be deemed approved. According to Labour Minister Bandaru Dattatreya, such minor differences of opinion are common and these would be settled soon.

The industrial relations Bill aims to combine and amend three laws — the Industrial Disputes Act, the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, and the Trade Unions Act. The proposals opposed by trade unions include easing retrenchment norms, curbing trade union formation and restricting strikes.