Right to Fair Wages
Every worker has the right to receive timely and fair wages for work performed. Minimum wages are fixed by the government and employers cannot pay below this amount. Wages must be paid without unauthorized deductions.
Legal Basis: Code on Wages, 2019; Minimum Wages Act, 1948
Right to Safe Working Conditions
Employers must provide a safe and healthy working environment. This includes proper ventilation, lighting, sanitation facilities, safety equipment, and protection from hazardous substances.
Legal Basis: Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020
Right Against Sexual Harassment
Every woman has the right to work in an environment free from sexual harassment. Employers must constitute an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) and follow proper procedures for addressing complaints.
Legal Basis: Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013
Right to Maternity Benefits
Women employees are entitled to 26 weeks of paid maternity leave for the first two children, and 12 weeks for subsequent children. This includes protection against dismissal during pregnancy.
Legal Basis: Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 (as amended in 2017)
Right to Equal Pay
There shall be no discrimination in wages on the basis of gender. Men and women must receive equal pay for equal work or work of similar nature. This is a fundamental principle of workplace equality.
Legal Basis: Equal Remuneration Act, 1976; Code on Wages, 2019
Right to Social Security
Workers have the right to social security benefits including provident fund, pension, gratuity, and insurance. Employers must contribute to these schemes as mandated by law.
Legal Basis: Code on Social Security, 2020; EPF Act, 1952
Right to Form Unions
Workers have the right to form and join trade unions to protect their interests. Unions can collectively bargain with employers and represent workers in disputes.
Legal Basis: Trade Unions Act, 1926; Industrial Relations Code, 2020
Right Against Wrongful Termination
Employees cannot be dismissed arbitrarily. Proper notice or pay in lieu must be given. For establishments with 100+ workers, government permission is required for retrenchment. Terminated employees have the right to challenge unfair dismissal.
Legal Basis: Industrial Relations Code, 2020; Standing Orders Act, 1946
Important Tips
- Keep copies of your appointment letter and salary slips
- Understand your employment contract terms thoroughly
- Report safety violations to the Labour Inspector
- Know your ICC members and complaint procedure for harassment
- Verify your PF and ESI contributions regularly
- Document all workplace issues in writing with dates
- Seek legal advice before signing any termination documents
Legal Provisions
Labour Codes (2020)
- Code on Wages, 2019
- Industrial Relations Code, 2020
- Code on Social Security, 2020
- Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020
Key Protections
- Minimum Wages - Government notified rates
- Working Hours - Maximum 8 hours/day, 48 hours/week
- Leave - Annual leave, sick leave, casual leave
- Overtime - Double the ordinary rate of wages
Grievance Redressal
- Internal Grievance Mechanism
- Labour Commissioner/Inspector
- Labour Courts and Industrial Tribunals
- National Company Law Tribunal (for certain matters)
Related Rights
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