A Labouring Nation: Navigating New Codes, Upholding Constitutional Mandates, and Eradicating Child Labour
A Labouring Nation: Navigating New Codes, Upholding Constitutional Mandates, and Eradicating Child Labour India, a nation aspiring to be a global economic powerhouse, stands at a critical juncture in its labor history. The recent enactment of the four Labour Codes – on Wages, Social Security, Industrial Relations, and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions – represents a bold attempt to overhaul the nation's complex labor laws. However, this reimagining of labor must be viewed through the lens of constitutional mandates, particularly those related to social justice and the abolition of child labor. Constitutional Cornerstones: Guiding Principles The Constitution of India serves as the bedrock of all legislation, and the Labour Codes are no exception. Article 39(e) and (f) of the Directive Principles of State Policy mandates that the State shall direct its policy towards securing that the health and strength of workers, men and women, and the tender age of children are n...