Labour department of Sikkim strengthens regulations to protect workers

The Labour Department of the Government of Sikkim has taken significant steps to strengthen labour regulations and ensure proper monitoring of employment conditions across the state. In a recent press conference, the Secretary of the Labour Department highlighted the formation of task force teams in all districts to oversee labour-related matters. District Collectors and Superintendents of Police have been actively involved in coordination meetings over the past week to enhance enforcement measures.

The state follows the Sikkim Labour (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2021, which was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. This law was designed to address issues faced by migrant workers and regulate their employment conditions. The act mandates that all workers, both in the organized and unorganized sectors, must register with the Labour Department before taking up employment in Sikkim.

Organized Sector: Employers must register their establishments and workers. Additionally, they are required to submit a monthly return detailing worker information. As per official data, 114 establishments have registered under this category, employing 18,995 workers.

Unorganized Sector: Workers coming individually to Sikkim must also register with the Labour Department. Employment without proper registration is strictly prohibited.

The registration card issued upon enrollment contains essential details, including the worker’s name, address, employer’s name, and identification proof. Workers need to submit photographs, Aadhaar, and voter ID for registration. This process can be completed at district labour offices, Rangpo, and check posts where labour registration facilities are available.

The Labour Department said that the registration card is not an entry permit or trade license. It serves only as an identity card and does not grant residency rights in Sikkim. Additionally, foreign nationals, including those from Nepal, are required to register through the Foreigners’ Registration Office and not through the Labour Department.

To ensure compliance, a fine of Rs. 2,500 is imposed for violations, with the Labour Department authorized to levy penalties. Registration is a continuous process, and workers must complete it as soon as they arrive in Sikkim. The registration card is valid for one financial year, up to March 31, after which it must be renewed.

Currently, labour registration is conducted manually. However, the state is developing a centralized database, and plans are underway to launch an online registration system through a mobile app and website. Once implemented, this system will streamline the registration process and improve record-keeping.

The Labour Department clarified that it can only set the minimum wage rate for workers, while the maximum wage is determined by market demand and supply.

The department also said that students do not require registration, as they are not classified as workers.