Enacted 2020

The Industrial Relations Code, 2020

Overview

The Industrial Relations Code streamlines trade union registration, introduces fixed-term employment, raises thresholds for standing orders and government approvals, and establishes new dispute resolution mechanisms. Key change: establishments with 300+ workers (up from 100) need government permission for layoffs, retrenchment, and closure.

Laws Replaced (3)
  • Trade Unions Act, 1926
  • Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946
  • Industrial Disputes Act, 1947
Chapter-wise Structure
1Preliminary
Sections 1-2
2Trade Unions
Sections 3-21
3Standing Orders
Sections 22-32
4Voluntary Reference & Settlement
Sections 33-39
5Disputes Resolution
Sections 40-58
6Strikes and Lockouts
Sections 59-64
7Layoff, Retrenchment, Closure
Sections 65-83
8Worker Re-skilling Fund
Sections 84-85
9Offences and Penalties
Sections 86-99
10Miscellaneous
Sections 100-104