- Major action by Yogi government: Licences of 203 contractors cancelled for labour law violations
- Action against 203 contractors linked to 24 factories; blacklisting process initiated
- Recovery and legal proceedings being prepared for non-payment of workers’ dues
- 21% wage hike implemented; revised wages effective from April to be paid in May
News Street Live, Gautam Buddh Nagar, April 17: Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has taken a strict stance on workers’ rights and initiated large-scale action. In this regard, the process has begun to cancel the licences of 203 contractors associated with 24 factories in Gautam Buddh Nagar for violating labour laws, along with recovery of dues and blacklisting of the concerned agencies.
According to Additional Labour Commissioner Rakesh Dwivedi, several contractors were found to have a suspicious role in recent incidents of vandalism during workers’ protests. Additionally, contractors who failed to comply with labour laws and deprived workers of their rightful benefits have been issued a penalty notice of ₹1,16,05,067, with directions that the amount be paid to the workers.
He added, “The identification of remaining contractors is ongoing, and strict action will also be taken against them. The government’s intent is clear: any negligence or disregard towards workers’ rights will not be tolerated.”
The Additional Labour Commissioner also informed that following unrest over wage hikes, a high-level committee constituted at the government level recommended a 21% increase in wages for workers in 74 scheduled employments in Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad. This increase will be effective from April 1, 2026, and the revised wages will be paid between May 7 and 10. The new rates will apply equally to both contractual and permanent workers.
It has also been clarified that no deductions other than EPF and ESI will be permitted from workers’ wages. Any violation will invite strict legal action. The Labour Department has further ensured that workers will receive overtime pay at double rates, along with all statutory benefits such as bonus and gratuity. In cases of delayed or underpayment of wages, accountability will be fixed not only on contractors but also on their principal employers.
Industrial associations in the district have begun implementing the state government’s guidelines regarding minimum wage increases. Various industry bodies are actively ensuring 100% compliance by appealing to industrial units through WhatsApp groups, sharing messages, audio, and video content. These efforts are being widely appreciated, as they are playing an important role in maintaining industrial harmony and peace in the district.
