The Kerala government has come under intense scrutiny after a leaked draft—apparently aligned with the Centre’s newly notified labour codes—triggered political uproar and criticism from labour unions and opposition parties.
The revelation has put the Left administration on the back foot, especially as it has consistently positioned itself as a strong opponent of the Centre’s four labour codes, which officially came into force this month. These codes introduce sweeping reforms such as universal social security for gig workers, flexible hiring rules, and streamlined labour compliance—changes that unions have condemned as anti-worker.
Following the leak, Labour Minister V. Sivankutty clarified that the draft was prepared under pressure from central authorities but stressed that Kerala has not initiated any move to implement the codes. He assured that no final decision would be taken without extensive consultation with trade unions and stakeholders.
Unions, however, allege that the draft signals an attempt to introduce the new labour laws “through the backdoor,” even as nationwide protests against the codes gather momentum.
The controversy has intensified the debate over labour reforms in the state, raising questions about transparency, federal pressure, and the future of worker protections in Kerala.
