Diocese of Gulbarga Holds Seminar on New Labour Codes to Enhance Institutional Compliance

Gulbarga, February 13, 2026:

In a proactive step toward strengthening institutional governance, the Diocese of Gulbarga on Wednesday organised a seminar on the New Labour Codes at Sugyan, bringing together representatives from educational, religious and social institutions to better understand the evolving legal framework governing employment and administration.

The initiative, led by the diocesan Commissions for Social Concerns and Education under the guidance of Fr. Steevan and Fr. Victor, aimed to equip institutions with practical knowledge to ensure legal compliance and responsible governance.

The seminar was held in the presence of Bishop Robert Miranda of the Diocese of Gulbarga, along with Fr. Santhosh Bapu, Vicar General, and Fr. Steavan Veigas, Secretary of the Education Commission. Their participation underscored the Diocese’s commitment to aligning its institutions with statutory requirements while safeguarding their mission-driven identity.

Organised by the Gulbarga Diocesan Education Society in collaboration with the concerned commissions, the programme drew around 80 participants from diocesan NGOs and educational institutions. The gathering provided a platform for administrators and managers to engage with pressing legal developments affecting employment practices.

Adv. Fr. Vincent Pereira, Advocate of the Diocese of Gulbarga, served as the resource person and delivered a detailed and practical presentation on the four New Labour Codes and related regulations. He outlined key changes concerning wages, Employees’ State Insurance (ESI), Provident Fund (PF), gratuity, professional tax, leave policies, statutory registers, registration procedures, social security provisions, and occupational safety and health standards.

Emphasising accountability, Fr. Pereira noted that charitable and religious institutions fall squarely within the ambit of the new legal regime. He highlighted the need for proper documentation, written appointment letters, structured wage systems, accurate maintenance of statutory records, and strict adherence to safety and welfare norms. In an era marked by digital inspections and enhanced enforcement mechanisms, he cautioned that non-compliance or ignorance of the law could result in serious liabilities and penalties.

Speakers also stressed that compliance is not merely a statutory obligation but a reflection of justice, transparency, and respect for the dignity of workers—principles rooted in the Church’s social teaching.

The seminar concluded with a renewed resolve among participants to adopt proactive compliance strategies and strengthen administrative systems, ensuring that diocesan institutions continue their mission of education and social service with credibility, accountability and confidence.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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