Labour Movement in India [UGC NTA NET Political Science Notes]

The Labour Movement is a collective organisation of workers striving to enhance their rights and improve working conditions. It addresses fundamental issues such as:

• Fair wages
• Reasonable working hours
• Job security

The movement is vital in advocating for social justice and the rights of workers across various sectors.

Historical Background

The Labour Movement in India began to take shape during the late 19th century, primarily under British colonial rule. Influenced by global labour movements and ideologies such as Marxism and socialism, Indian workers united against exploitation and demanded better conditions.

Key Phases of the Labour Movement

Pre-Independence Era (1850s-1947)

– The Bombay Mill Hands Association, established in 1890, was one of the earliest trade unions. – Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Mahatma Gandhi advocated for workers’ rights. – The impact of the First World War and the Great Depression brought into light the urgent need for improved workers’ rights.

Post-Independence Era (1947-Present)

– The enactment of various labour laws, notably the Industrial Disputes Act (1947) and the Trade Unions Act (1926), marked a new phase for the movement. – Trade unions began to flourish, often aligning with political parties such as the Indian National Congress and the Communist Party of India. – Movements advocating for informal sector workers emerged, reflecting the changing nature of labour in India.

Major Trade Unions

Several trade unions have played very important roles in the Labour Movement:

• Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC): Affiliated with the Indian National Congress, it focuses on workers’ rights and social justice.
• Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU): Linked to the Communist Party of India (Marxist), it advocates for the rights of industrial workers.
• All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC): One of the oldest trade unions in India, emphasising the rights of workers across various sectors.

Key Issues Addressed by the Labour Movement

The Labour Movement tackles several pressing issues, including:

1. Wage disparities and minimum wage legislation.
2. Working conditions and occupational safety.
3. Job security and employment benefits.
4. Rights of women and marginalised workers.
5. Social security measures like the Employees’ Provident Fund and Employees’ State Insurance.

Major Strikes and Movements

Several strikes and movements have marked the Labour Movement in India:

• Great Bombay Textile Strike (1982): Led by trade unions against wage cuts and layoffs, this strike demonstrated the power of collective action among workers.
• Haryana Land Reforms Movement (1970s): Focused on land rights and labour rights for agricultural workers, emphasising the interconnectedness of land and labour issues.
• NREGA (National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005): Aimed at providing a legal guarantee of at least 100 days of unskilled wage employment in a financial year to every rural household, representing advancement in labour rights for rural workers.

Government Policies and Legislation

Labour Laws in India

Key labour laws include:

• Industrial Disputes Act, 1947: Governs industrial disputes and strikes.
• Factories Act, 1948: Regulates working conditions in factories.
• Minimum Wages Act, 1948: Establishes minimum wage standards.
• Trade Unions Act, 1926: Provides legal recognition to trade unions.

Recent Reforms

Recent reforms have aimed to modernise labour laws:

• Labour Code on Wages, 2019: Aims to simplify wage regulations.
• Industrial Relations Code, 2020: Seeks to streamline industrial relations.
• Code on Social Security, 2020: Expands social security benefits for workers.

Challenges Faced by the Labour Movement

The Labour Movement faces several challenges:

• Fragmentation of Trade Unions: Multiple unions often lead to disunity, weakening collective bargaining power.
• Informalization of the Workforce: A portion of the workforce is informal, lacking legal protections, complicating efforts to organise workers.
• Globalisation and its Impact: Increased competition has affected local industries, making it challenging for workers to secure rights amidst global supply chains.
• Political Interference: Political influences can disrupt union unity, with government policies sometimes favouring capital over labour.
• Resistance from Employers: Employers often resist unionisation efforts, implementing policies that undermine workers’ rights.

Role of Technology and Globalization

Impact of Automation and Digitalisation

Automation poses a threat to traditional jobs, leading to job insecurity. Digitalisation creates new forms of work but also introduces new challenges for workers.

Global Supply Chains

Global supply chains can dilute local labour rights. Workers may face exploitation in the name of global competition, often working under poor conditions.

Rise of the Gig Economy

The gig economy offers flexibility but lacks job security. Workers in this sector frequently miss out on benefits like health insurance and retirement plans.

Future of the Labour Movement

The Labour Movement in India must adapt to future challenges:

• Need for Stronger Coalitions: Unions should form stronger coalitions to enhance their bargaining power, enabling them to address common challenges effectively.
• Advocacy for Comprehensive Reforms: There is a pressing need for comprehensive labour reforms that address the changing nature of work and workers’ rights.
• Focus on Sustainable Development: The movement should advocate for sustainable and equitable development, ensuring fair treatment for all workers is essential for progress.