Workers India Federation Raises Alarm Over Labour Codes

New Delhi, 26 November 2025 — Workers India Federation (WIF), together with the Confederation of Unorganised Workers’ Forums, has warned that the newly implemented Labour Codes threaten workers’ rights by weakening trade union protections, limiting job security, and exposing 93% of India’s workforce in the unorganised sector to greater exploitation. The organisation has called on the government to review the laws through meaningful consultation and align them with constitutional guarantees and international labour standards.

Fr. George Thomas Nirrappukalayil, Director of WIF, stated that the Codes reflect a shift towards a corporate-centred economic environment, reducing safeguards intended to protect fair working conditions and the dignity of labour. The Federation expressed concern over restrictions on the right to organise, weakening collective bargaining and leaving workers in smaller establishments especially vulnerable.

Another issue highlighted is the lack of clarity on how social security will be provided to crores of unorganised-sector workers, despite promises of wider coverage. WIF noted that the recently released draft National Employment Policy also fails to address these implementation gaps.

The Federation criticised provisions allowing establishments with up to 300 workers to be shut down without prior government approval, warning that such measures may lead to sudden closures, job losses and insecurity. The Federation stressed that labour reform must enhance — not dilute — protection, dignity and equality for workers nationwide.

WIF has urged the Government of India to immediately revisit the Labour Codes to safeguard the rights, security and future of the country’s working population.

By Fr. Santosh Digal