Karnataka’s draft wage rules mirror Centre’s rules, raise concerns on worker coverage

Karnataka’s draft Code on Wages Rules, mirroring the central government's framework, have drawn criticism from labor unions who argue they weaken enforcement and leave a significant portion of workers unprotected. The unions contend that the rules, which aim to establish minimum wages and ensure compliance across states, fail to address structural flaws in wage protection and may actually depress wages. They also express concern over the exclusion of informal workers, women, and domestic workers from the code's scope, as well as the lack of a clear methodology for floor wage fixation and annual dearness allowance revision. The unions call for greater attention to these issues before implementation.