Industrial Disputes Act 1947 amended
Parliament on 10th Aug 2010 passed a law which will allow a dismissed industrial worker to directly approach the labour court for redressal of his grievances without any reference from the government. The Industrial Disputes (Amendment) Bill, 2010, which was approved by the Lok Sabha, provides for a workman to approach labour court after 45 days of his dismissal without reference from appropriate government. The bill was earlier passed by the Rajya Sabha.
Labour Minister Mallikarjun Kharge said winding up the debate on the Bill, the original Bill had provided for a three-month waiting period for filing of complaint by a dismissed worker. But, it was reduced to 45 days on the recommendations of the Standing Committee. The Bill, which seeks to amend the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, also provides for establishment of a grievance redressal machinery in every industrial unit employing 20 or more workmen. According to the bill, a person receiving up to Rs 10,000 per month would be treated as workman under the new provisions. At present, the limit is Rs 1,600 a month.
The maximum amount of gratuity payable to an employees under section 4 of Payment of Gratuity Act 1972 has been enhanced to Rs. 10 lakhs from Rs.3.5 lakhs.
The maximum benefits payable under the Employees Deposit Linked Insurance Scheme 1976 has been increased to Rs.1 lakh.
Hitherto employees drawing a monthly salary of up to Rs.10000 (excluding overtime allowance) were covered for contribution and benefits under the Employees State Insurance Act 1948. With effect from 1st May 2010, employees drawing up to Rs.15000 have be covered.
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