The Centre announced on November 21 that all four new Labour Codes had come into force. This led to confusion because many assumed that certain aspects of the laws needed clarity so the government might not immediately enforce from that date.
The four new Labour Codes are: Code on Wages, 2019; Industrial Relations Code, 2020; Code on Social Security, 2020; and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020.
These 4 Codes replace and rationalise 29 older labour laws.
Why doubts continued among employees
Even though the government stated that the Codes were implemented, employees and industry stakeholders still had doubts. Many provisions relating to wages, social security, workplace policies, and retirement structures are expected to undergo major changes, leading to uncertainty about when the rules will apply.
Govt clarifies in Parliament doubts regarding implementation
To clear the confusion, the Labour Ministry responded to questions raised by MP Raju Bista in Parliament regarding delays in implementing the Codes, particularly in North Bengal tea gardens.
Labour Ministry confirms the implementation date
Labour and Employment Minister Shobha Karandlaje confirmed that all four Labour Codes are officially in force from November 21, 2025.
She said: “The Code on Wages, the Industrial Relations Code, the Code on Social Security, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code have all been brought into force with effect from 21st November, 2025. Together, they provide an integrated framework for wage protection, social security, workplace safety, and labour welfare.”
Questions on inspections in tea gardens
The MP also asked for details about: The number of central inspections in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and North Dinajpur tea gardens over the last five years; violations detected and action taken.
In response, the minister said that working conditions in tea gardens are regulated by State Governments under the Plantations Labour Act, 1951—now subsumed under the Occupational Safety Code and Social Security Code, both effective from November 21, 2025.