Labour Codes: Minister V Sivankutty Holds Discussions with Trade Unions

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Labour Minister V Sivankutty held discussions with trade union organisations regarding labour code revisions. He said the meeting reached a consensus to demand withdrawal of the unilateral attempt to implement the labour code without taking into account the concerns of workers. Sivankutty noted that reforms concerning labour rights must be carried out in consultation with stakeholders, and not enforced without dialogue.

The minister also announced that Kerala will host a Labour Conclave on December 19, inviting labour ministers from all states. He said that many states also oppose aspects of the labour code. The conclave will be held in four sessions and will explore whether states have the legal space to formulate their own labour laws. Sivankutty added that the state has decided to meet the Union Minister and submit a memorandum on these issues.

He also criticised retaliatory actions taken by certain central government institutions against workers who took part in yesterday’s protest by wearing black badges. Sivankutty said such actions are unacceptable and clarified that disciplinary proceedings cannot be initiated simply because someone participated in symbolic protest. He added that the central government should not attempt to intimidate Kerala’s workers through such measures.