ThePrint ThePrintAM: WHY HAS KERALA REFUSED TO IMPLEMENT CENTRE's NEW LABOUR CODES?
Nov 28, 2025
Kerala is pushing back against the Centre's new labour codes, demanding their withdrawal before upcoming polls. Labour Minister V. Shivankutty labels the codes as anti-worker, highlighting a lack of consultation. Trade unions convened an emergency meeting to address concerns over provisions like the 14-day strike notice. The Centre aims for a unified approach with new codes, but Kerala seeks to frame state-specific laws. Political reactions emphasize the potential dismantling of labour protections and collective action restrictions. A one-day labour conclave is planned to study the impacts.
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Kerala Rejects New Labour Codes
- Kerala's LDF government demanded rollback of the four new labour codes, calling them anti-worker and unconsulted.
- Labour Minister V. Shivankutty said Kerala will not implement the new labour courts.
Emergency Union Meeting In Kerala
- Kerala's labour department held an emergency online meeting with major trade unions and passed a resolution to demand withdrawal of the codes.
- Leaders from CITU, INTUC, AITUC, BMS and SFI attended and resolved to resist the policies.
Four Codes Replace 29 Laws
- The Centre folded 29 labour laws into four codes presented as streamlining and modernising labour rules.
- Trade unions and many states argue the move weakens worker protections and restricts strike rights.